A Growing Understanding Speech Pathology offers one-on-one appointments where we will assess, provide advice and therapy support for children of all ages who have difficulty with a range of communication and feeding skills:

• Speech Sounds (the sounds used when speaking and how well someone is understood)
• Expressive Language (using words and sentences, vocabulary)
• Receptive Language (following directions, answering questions, understanding words and stories)
• Stuttering (speech fluency)
• Feeding (breastfeeding and all stages of feeding)
• Play and Social Communication Skills
• Literacy (sound awareness for reading and spelling, reading comprehension, writing skills)

We can deliver the following services at one of our clinics located in Gateshead, Lake Macquarie, or Williamtown, Port Stephens, or we can come to your home, the child’s education centre or school.

• Assessment of communication and feeding concerns
• Therapy appointments / sessions
• Programming and planning sessions
• Review appointments to monitor progress

A Growing Understanding Speech Pathology believes a holistic approach to a child’s development is essential when it comes to reaching their full potential. That is why we have strong working relationships with local professionals from other disciplines including Occupational Therapists (OTs), Psychiatrists, Paediatricians and Physiotherapist. We collaborate and work with these professionals to deliver specific therapies for individuals, group interventions, and as part of our ongoing professional development.

What is the first step when it comes to my child’s therapy?

A Growing Understanding Speech Pathology takes the time to talk with all families so we can gain an understanding of your concerns and your budget, and help you to understand our process.

Following the initial discussion, usually over the phone, we generally recommend a thorough assessment that will help us determine the best therapy plan for your child.

What happens in an assessment session?

Assessment sessions usually occur within one of our therapy rooms and can take approximately an hour to complete. Depending on the age and needs of your child, informal and/or formal (standardised) assessments may be required to gain a full picture of your child’s strengths and weaknesses, relative to their age. Games and activities are always used in these sessions to motivate and reward, and to allow for play breaks as required. A detailed written report will be provided on completion of the assessment.

When will therapy commence and what will happen in these sessions?

Therapy session will generally commence as soon as possible, following the initial assessment. These sessions will run for approximately 30 to 60 minutes at a time, depending on your child’s needs. On the outset of the therapy session with your child, we will set realistic goals based on your concerns and on the realities of your day to day life. Your child’s progress and needs throughout their therapy will be reviewed and we will update their goals and therapy plan as needed.

The activities that we do with your child during the therapy sessions are designed to be fun and rewarding and we take pride in selecting games and resources that complement your child’s interests. Your child will often be invited to choose preferred games too, giving them a feeling of control and independence which enhances motivation and participation.

During most sessions, you can be in the room with the speech pathologist and your child. Your attendance is encouraged as this helps to ensure that everyone understands the therapy process.

How can I support my child’s therapy?

A Growing Understanding Speech Pathology offers parent guidance and training with every therapy session, so that you can support your child’s learning outside of the therapy setting. Home practice is key when it comes to achieving the best outcomes for your child. Your Speech Pathologist will work with you to determine an achievable home practice plan and will provide you with advice, ideas, handouts, pictures and workbooks at the end of each session.

Click here to talk to us about your concerns or to book an appointment for your child.