Question 1

What is the role of a Speech Pathologist?

Accepted Answer

A Speech Pathologist is a university trained professional who works closely with children, adolescents and adults alongside their families to improve their speech and communication skills and consequently improve their quality of life. 
The role of a peadiatric Speech Pathologist is to provide assessment, diagnosis and intervention for:
- Receptive (understanding) and Expressive (using language to communicate needs/wants) Language 
- Speech sound production (articulation)
- Fluency (stuttering)
- Social skills
- Pre-literacy (Phonemic awareness) 
- Literacy skills including spellig, reading, reading comprehension and written expression
- Voice

Question 2

What will my first session involve?

Accepted Answer

Prior to your initial assessment session, you will speak with a Speech Pathologist over the phone to determine the cause of your concerns for your child. In addition to this phone call, you will be provided with a questionnaire to complete and bring to the session with you.
Assessment types and times vary depending on the reason for referral and may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3+ hours to complete. 
 
The assessment is usually completed in one visit, however, it may be split over two or more visits depending on your child's needs. At Speak Speech Pathology, a combination of standardised and informal assessments are used to gain a comprehensive insight into your child's strengths and weaknesses. Upon completion of the assessment, your Speech Pathologist will produce a comprehensive report detailing the assessment findings and therapeutic recommendations.

Question 3

How long will my child need to attend Speech Pathology for?

Accepted Answer

If your child requires Speech Pathology intervention, the length of the recommended therapy session varies depending on the needs of the child. Sessions usually run for 30, 45 or 60 minutes. The frequency and duration of therapy attendance depends on the child's needs.
 
Weekly therapy is most often recommended, however, some therapy is most effective when delivered intensively (3-5x per week), fortnightly or on a monthly basis depending on the child's difficulties.
 
The number of sessions required widely varies depending on the nature and severity of the presenting difficulties, the amount of practise being done between appointments and the rate of progress.

Question 4

Fees

Accepted Answer

The cost of sessions depends on the service being provided (assessment or therapy) as well as the duration of these sessions. 
 
Please call 0413057982 for more information regarding assessment and therapy fees.

Question 5

Funding and rebates

Accepted Answer

You do not need a written referral to see a Speech Pathologist. ​​
If you are unsure whether your child may benefit from a Speech pathology assessment, feel free to call or send an email to info@speakspeechpathology.com (mailto:info@speakspeechpathology.com)to determine if an initial assessment is required. 
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NATIONAL DISABILITY SCHEME (NDIS)- Services are currently available for individuals with self-management plans.
MEDICARE- You may be entitled to a Chronic Disease Management Plan which entitles you to a rebate for 5 Speech Pathology sessions per calendar year. Ask your GP If you are eligible for this plan.
PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE- Some health funds provide cover for Speech Pathology services. Please contact your provider to find out more.