Frequently
Asked
Questions
How much does speech therapy cost?
Is there funding for speech therapy?
Where are you located?
What is speech therapy and how can it help my child?
Speech therapy involves assessing and treating communication disorders. It can help your child improve their speech, language, and communication skills, enabling them to express themselves more effectively and interact better with others.
At what age should I consider speech therapy for my child?
It’s beneficial to consider speech therapy if your child shows signs of speech or language delays. Early intervention, even as young as 18 months, can be crucial. However, therapy can be effective at any age, including for young adults.
What are common signs that my child might need speech therapy?
Signs include difficulty being understood, limited vocabulary, trouble forming sentences, stuttering, difficulty following directions, and frustration with communication. If you notice any of these, a speech pathologist can help.
How long does speech therapy typically take?
The duration of therapy varies based on the child’s needs, goals, and progress. Some children may benefit from a few months of therapy, while others may require longer-term support. Regular check-ins help track progress and adjust the plan as needed.
What does a typical speech therapy session look like?
Sessions are usually 45-60 minutes and include a variety of activities tailored to your child’s interests and needs. These activities may involve games, storytelling, and exercises to improve speech sounds, language, and communication skills. Sessions include 15 minutes of note writing which we send to you so you know exactly what to practice when you are at home.
Can speech therapy be done remotely?
Yes, we offer online therapy services for speech therapy. Virtual sessions are as effective as in-person visits and provide flexibility for families who may have difficulty attending in person. Click here to find out more!
How do I prepare my child for their first speech therapy session?
Explain to your child that they will be meeting a new friend who will help them with their talking and listening. Keep the explanation simple and positive. You can also share that they will play fun games and activities.
Will I need to do activities at home with my child?
Yes, practising at home is essential for reinforcing skills learned during therapy. Your speech pathologist will provide exercises and activities to do at home, which ensure steady progress.
How do I know if my child is making progress?
Your speech pathologist will regularly review and discuss your child’s progress with you. Progress can be seen in improved communication, increased confidence, and meeting the set goals. Periodic assessment will help monitor progress.
What is the difference between a speech therapist and a speech pathologist?
There is no difference between a speech therapist and a speech pathologist; they are two terms for the same profession. Both professionals diagnose and treat speech, language, and communication disorders.
How long between assessments?
The interval between re-assessments depends on the specific needs of the client and the type of assessment. For some standardised assessments, there must be a minimum of 12 months between re-assessments to avoid the practice effect, which can influence the results. Your speech pathologist will recommend the appropriate timeline based on your child’s progress and the specific assessment tools used.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No you don’t need a referral from anyone to access services. If you are wanting to access the limited medicare rebates your GP or Paediatrician will determine if you are eligible. See here for information on medicare rebates. For NDIS clients who are plan or self managed you can
Do you see NDIS clients?
Yes we see plan managed and self managed NDIS clients.
Do you provide home, kindy or school visits?
We do not provide home, kindy, or school visits. The cost of travel would be charged to clients and we believe that these funds are better utilised directly for therapy sessions to maximize the benefits for your child. Instead, we offer flexible online therapy options and in-clinic sessions to ensure your child receives high-quality care.