Aspiring SLP & ABA Program (ASAP)

Are you a recent graduate taking a gap year before applying to SLP grad school?
Do you want paid, real-world therapy experience that strengthens your graduate school application?

Gain Hands-On Therapy Experience Before OT Grad School

The Aspiring SLP & ABA Program (ASAP) at CST Academy is designed for aspiring speech-language pathologists who want to gain hands-on experience in ABA therapy, observe speech therapy sessions, and develop essential clinical skills—all while working in a leading multidisciplinary therapy clinic.

This one-of-a-kind program is your opportunity to build clinical skills, enhance your application, and stand out when applying for grad school.

Why Join OTAP?

Hands-on ABA therapy experience working directly with children
Ongoing SLP observation opportunities
1:1 mentorship from experienced therapists
Grad school prep support (resume reviews, personal statement guidance, mock interviews, and dedicated interview coaching)
Strong letters of recommendation to boost your application
Paid employment in a leading multidisciplinary therapy clinic
A supportive cohort of peers who are also preparing for grad school
Team Training Days with expert-led training and multidisciplinary collaboration.

What You’ll Do

Work 1:1 with children as an ABA therapist at our therapy centers
Complete comprehensive ABA training and gain behavior intervention skills
Observe speech therapy sessions to gain direct exposure to SLPs in action
Receive grad school application support through workshops and mentorship
Be part of a dynamic therapy environment at CST Academy

Who Should Apply?

Recent college graduates planning to apply to SLP grad programs
Aspiring SLPs who want clinical experience before grad school
Individuals passionate about working with children in a therapy setting
Candidates looking for paid professional experience in a top therapy clinic

How to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with early applicants receiving priority consideration.

Locations: CST Academy – Chicago, Wilmette, Northbrook, & Buffalo Grove
Compensation: $20-25/hour
Commitment: 12 months or more

Hear From Our Past Participants

"This program gave me the experience I needed to get into my top-choice SLP grad school. The ABA training and speech therapy exposure were invaluable!" – Lauren, Former ASAP Participant

"ASAP was the perfect bridge before grad school—I gained clinical skills, mentorship, and confidence while working with kids!" – Jessica, Future SLP

Your Future Starts Here!

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain real-world therapy experience, build connections, and strengthen your grad school application—all while gaining valuable professional experience in a top therapy clinic.

Empowering Neurodiverse Children and Building Rewarding Careers | CST Academy

"CST Academy is a great place to work because of the amazing clinicians who work together as a team to make a difference for each of our learners. We prioritize our clinicians' professional growth and make sure that we provide opportunities for both career advancement and professional development. We also recognize the importance of fun, and we take the time to celebrate the seemingly small steps that turn into big milestones for our little ones and their families."