Who is considered a "Licensee" in North Carolina?

In the context of North Carolina's speech-language pathology licensure, a "Licensee" refers specifically to an individual who has obtained a permanent license in speech-language pathology. This distinction is crucial because a permanent license signifies that the individual has fulfilled all the necessary requirements, including education, supervised clinical experience, and successful completion of any required examinations.

A permanent license allows the professional to practice independently and signifies their authorization to provide services in this field without the limitations and conditions that may apply to those with temporary licenses. Those with temporary licenses are still working toward meeting all the conditions necessary for full licensure, and thus do not fall under the category of a "Licensee" in the state’s regulatory language.

An individual simply applying for licensure has not yet demonstrated the qualifications or completed the steps necessary to be recognized as a licensed practitioner. Similarly, the individuals overseeing assistants are typically licensed professionals who may be responsible for supervising assistants but do not constitute the definition of a "Licensee" as it pertains to those who are independently authorized to practice. Therefore, the correct choice accurately reflects the criteria established by the licensing board for the state of North Carolina.