“Imposter syndrome is when you doubt your own skills and successes. You feel you’re not as talented or worthy as others believe, and you’re scared that one day, people will realize that.” – WebMD.
I have met so many speech-language pathologists over the years that 100% have imposter syndrome. I think perhaps the trauma of a graduate program can do that to someone, and it is challenging to shake. We all entered a field that has high expectations that are nearly impossible to meet. I recall being referred to as “the expert in AAC” in an IEP meeting during my second year of grad school, and I felt my entire body turn red with embarrassment. I was no expert! I don’t think I was an expert in anything- just basic knowledge of a broad field. It truly takes time- years and years worth of direct experience- to become an “expert” in any area in our field. That is the thing that makes a good majority of us feel inadequate. We can’t possibly know each type of EBP to treat every single speech and language disorder without grabbing a book to refresh our memories. That is normal and okay! There is no shame in having to look something up, as our brains can not retain all the essential information to accommodate the wide variety of clients we encounter. We have to normalize that thought and not feel ashamed when put on the spot to come up with a knowledgeable response. Here’s a tip (something a previous supervisor told me): just say “I do not want to give you the wrong information- so let me get back to you on that”. If you’ve ever been told that, have you looked down on that person? No way! If anything, you feel respected that they want to be sure you aren’t misguided.
If “Imposter Syndrome” is truly something you battle on a daily basis at work, consider making a strengths versus weaknesses list based on your skills. Highlight the areas you feel most confident in and consider making that your “niche” area of expertise. Review the areas you feel you are weak in and set a goal to read more and take CEU courses in those areas.
It’s funny (and somewhat annoying) that we are expected to have knowledge in all speech and language disorders as if we’re doctors (yet we aren’t paid anywhere near that amount). Even doctors specialize in certain parts of the body, yet we SLPs could have a school-based job and then PRN at an acute rehab center over the weekend! Keep that in mind when you’re beating yourself up over not knowing something you think you should know in our field. You wouldn’t expect your students, clients, or own children to be able to do it all, so please give yourself that same grace.
While it may seem counterintuitive, an article published in the Academy of Management Journal suggests that people who are more interpersonally effective are more prone to imposter syndrome (Tewfik, 2022). They often adopt a more outwardly focused orientation, prioritizing the emotions and needs of others. This heightened awareness can make them more susceptible to feelings of inadequacy, as they may overestimate the capabilities of those around them while underestimating their achievements. Such a mindset contributes to the pervasive self-doubt associated with imposter syndrome. Know that you are in good company if you are feeling imposter syndrome.
