A Speech Pathologist is a healthcare professional who assesses, disagnoses, and provides therapy for individuals with speech, communication and swallowing disorders.
Assessment
Speech Pathologists conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine a child’s communication strengths and weaknesses. This may include formal and informal language assessments, speech sound assessments, and assessments of oral-motor function (the movements necessary for speech and swallowing). The results of these evaluations are used to diagnose any communication/swallow disorders and determine the best course of treatment.
Therapy
Once a diagnosis has been made, the Speech Pathologist will develop a personalized therapy plan tailored to the child’s needs. Therapy may involve individual or group sessions and can focus on improving speech and language skills, enhancing oral-motor function, and increasing overall communication effectiveness. Therapy may also involve techniques for reducing stuttering or improving voice quality.
Who a Speech Pathologist can help?
Speech Pathologists can help children of all ages, including infants and school-aged children. They can assist young individuals with a wide range of communication and swallowing difficulties, including those with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, and hearing loss. Whether your child is struggling with communication and swallowing difficulties, a speech pathologist can help improve their quality of life and overall communication effectiveness.
Does my child need Speech Pathology?
It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician or a speech pathologist, to determine if your child may benefit from speech pathology services. Some signs that your child may benefit from speech therapy include:
Late development of speech and language skills compared to peers of the same age.
Difficulty producing certain sounds or difficulty with articulation.
Difficulty understanding spoken or written language.
Difficulty expressing thoughts and ideas in spoken or written language.
Stuttering or other fluency disorders.
Difficulty with social communication, such as initiating or maintaining conversations.
Difficulty with nonverbal communication, such as using facial expressions or body language.
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and/or fussy eating.
If you are concerned about your child’s speech, language, or communication skills, it is important to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional as early as possible. Early intervention can often make a significant difference in the development of these skills.
Get In Contact Today
steph@shinebrightalliedhealth.com.au
0468377228
1/9 Aqua Circuit, Caloundra West, 4551