Speech Pathology
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Speech Pathology
What is Speech Pathology?
Speech pathologists are allied health professionals who can diagnose and treat swallowing and communication disorders, including difficulties with:Â
- Speaking
- Listening
- Language
- Reading and Writing
- Social Skills
- Stuttering Voice
Our aim is to maximise the swallowing, communication, literacy and social skills of our participants to support them with achieving their goals and to live within the community in a safe and supported manner. We provide an extensive range of speech pathology services to children and adults across a range of disabilities and health conditions.Â
Our experienced speech pathologists are able to provide evidenced-based therapy due to their extensive training and qualifications, wide range of experiences, and our internal professional development program. For more specific information about our speech pathologists’ individual experience and areas of expertise, you can view  Our Expertise.Â
Speech pathologists frequently work closely with other allied health professionals to provide complementary services to achieve a participant’s goals. Â
For anyone seeking speech pathology services and assessments, please see our list of services below.Â
Good News Story
With Alissa
Despite facing numerous challenges during her stroke journey, Alissa’s unwavering commitment to making positive changes in her life has been truly inspirational. With the guidance from ORS’ speech pathology team, Alissa was able to skill develop and overcome many obstacles along the way. But ultimately, it was Alissa’s own strength of character that truly shone through. With determination, perseverance, and a positive attitude, we can all make positive changes in our lives and inspire others along the way.
Services available
Assistive technology and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) assessment and report outlining recommendations
An assessment of a participant’s communication, mobility and dexterity to recommend, prescribe and provide training for using suitable assistive technology devices, and a report outlining the recommendations.
Assistive technology and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) assessment and report outlining recommendations
An assessment of a participant’s communication, mobility and dexterity to recommend, prescribe and provide training for using suitable assistive technology devices, and a report outlining the recommendations.
Communication assessment and report outlining the recommendations
An assessment of a participant’s communication skills and language comprehension, and a report outlining the recommendations.
Communication assessment and report outlining the recommendations
An assessment of a participant’s communication skills and language comprehension, and a report outlining the recommendations.
Communication assessment, report and ongoing therapy by Speech Pathologist and/or Allied Health Assistant
An assessment of a participant’s communication skills and language comprehension, report outlining the recommendations, and ongoing speech therapy to assist the participant with achieving their goals.
Communication assessment, report and ongoing therapy by Speech Pathologist and/or Allied Health Assistant
An assessment of a participant’s communication skills and language comprehension, report outlining the recommendations, and ongoing speech therapy to assist the participant with achieving their goals.
Speech therapy and skill building by Speech Pathologist and/or Allied Health Assistant
The review of a participant’s speech pathology assessments and goals, with ongoing speech therapy to build communication and swallowing capability to achieve their goals.
Speech therapy and skill building by Speech Pathologist and/or Allied Health Assitant
The review of a participant’s speech pathology assessments and goals, with ongoing speech therapy to build communication and swallowing capability to achieve their goals.
Swallowing and communication assessment with mealtime management plan and communication recommendations
This is a joint service with a speech pathologist and a dietitian. A speech pathologist will assess any swallowing barriers and communication needs and a dietitian will assess the participant’s nutritional needs. A mealtime management plan is then developed and a report outlining the communication recommendations is provided.
Swallowing and communication assessment with mealtime management plan and communication recommendations
This is a joint service with a speech pathologist and a dietitian. A speech pathologist will assess any swallowing barriers and communication needs and a dietitian will assess the participant’s nutritional needs. A mealtime management plan is then developed and a report outlining the communication recommendations is provided.
Swallowing and communication assessment with mealtime management plan and ongoing therapy by Speech Pathologist and/or Allied Health Assistant
This is a joint service with a speech pathologist and a dietitian. A speech pathologist will assess any swallowing barriers and communication needs and a dietitian will assess the participant’s nutritional needs. A mealtime management plan is then developed with training and ongoing speech therapy sessions with the participant to assist them to achieve their goals.
Swallowing and communication assessment with mealtime management plan and ongoing therapy by Speech Pathologist and/or Allied Health Assistant
This is a joint service with a speech pathologist and a dietitian. A speech pathologist will assess any swallowing barriers and communication needs and a dietitian will assess the participant’s nutritional needs. A mealtime management plan is then developed with training and ongoing speech therapy sessions with the participant to assist them to achieve their goals.
Swallowing and nutrition assessment with mealtime management plan
This is a joint service with a speech pathologist and a dietitian. A speech pathologist will assess any swallowing barriers and support needs and a dietitian will assess the participant’s nutritional needs. A mealtime management plan is then developed with recommended strategies.
Swallowing and nutrition assessment with mealtime management plan
This is a joint service with a speech pathologist and a dietitian. A speech pathologist will assess any swallowing barriers and support needs and a dietitian will assess the participant’s nutritional needs. A mealtime management plan is then developed with recommended strategies.
How are these services funded and accessed?
A range of funding options are available for our speech pathology services.
The funding types and NDIS support categories that may cover these services include:
- Improved Daily Living
- Early Childhood Intervention
- Privately paid
- Lifetime Care (iCare)
Speech pathology services can be provided in person or via Telehealth for certain services across Australia.
T speech pathologist for your first appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Am I eligible for funding from the NDIS?
NDIS support categories that may cover these services include Improved Daily Living. To find out more, head to the National Disability Insurance Scheme website.
I have already had an assessment and have a report, can I just start therapy?
Yes. Your speech pathologist will read your previous report, meet with you to discuss your goals and do an informal assessment to confirm where to start therapy. They will create a plan with you to map out your therapy and funding. A summary report at the end of therapy or upon your request will be provided outlining progress and ongoing recommendations.
Where will I receive my services?
We are able to provide services at home, in schools, the workplace, in our offices, at supported accommodation centres and via Telehealth.
I’ve been recommended to see a speech pathologist but I’m not sure why.
You’re welcome to Contact us to speak to a member of our speech pathology team about what services you might benefit from.
I don’t live near an ORS office, am I able to access a communication or swallowing assessment and therapy online?
Yes. Our speech pathologists are happy to offer Telehealth services for communication and swallowing for those who are appropriate for this. In the event it is difficult for the speech pathologist to confirm a swallowing diagnosis online, we may recommend you seek face-to-face services.
Does ORS offer training for staff, family, teachers, carers and other support networks?
Our speech pathologists are happy to provide individualised training for our participants and the people in our participant’s lives to ensure success with their communication and swallowing needs. Training can be delivered face-to-face or online.
How can I work as a speech pathologist at ORS?
We would love to talk to you about your career and how we can support you.
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