Speech Pathology supports children and adults with two fundamental life skills; communicating and eating. Speech pathologists possess the drive and passion to aide and support patients, with their skills in order to engage in daily life.

Speech pathologists assess, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing difficulties in children and adults. Communication difficulties refer to challenges with speaking, understanding and/or using language, listening, social skills, stuttering, reading, writing and using voice. Speech pathologists also help people who have difficulties eating and drinking safely.

Speech pathologists can support patients in the following areas:

a) Speech delays and disorders – articulation and producing speech sounds
b) Expressive language – using language to share thoughts, feelings, and ideas
c) Receptive language – understanding language, word meanings and instructions
d) Augmentative and alternative communication for people with difficulties speaking and writing e.g. using pictures, communication boards or assistive devices to support understanding and expression of language
e) Fluency – supporting people who stutter to speak more fluently and with confidence
f) Feeding and swallowing difficulties – supporting infants, children, and adults who have difficulties eating, drinking and swallowing safely
g) Pre-literacy and literacy skills – learning to read, write and spell
h) Voice – disorders of the voice including pitch, quality, volume
i) Social communication difficulties – communicating for social purposes and following the rules for conversation
j) Cognitive-communication disorders – organising thoughts, planning, reasoning, paying attention, remembering and problem solving
k) Aural rehabilitation for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
l) Accent modification

In order to utilise the services of a speach pathologist a referal is required from the doctor.  Please call reception on 5500 0436 to make an appointment for a referral.