Speech pathologists (SLPs) provide services that include assessment and therapy. They work in many settings, including kindergartens, schools, hospitals, community health centres, and mental health services.
SLPs also work one-on-one with children who have communication disorders like autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. In addition, they may also assist with feeding and swallowing problems. For more speech pathologist services Adelaide, check this out.
Assessment
Depending on your child’s needs, speech pathologists use various assessment tools, including screening, informal observation and formal assessment tools. An assessment session can vary between 30-60 minutes depending on your child’s age, temperament and the level of detail required.
Parents are welcome to attend an assessment session with their child. However, we understand that this is not always possible – especially for older children who may find it difficult to relax and be assessed in an unfamiliar environment.
The assessment results form the basis for the therapy program developed and implemented by the speech pathologist. The speech pathologist will write an assessment report for the client, which includes the diagnosis and details of the recommended treatment plan. The client decides whether the report is available to others (e.g., family and teachers). In the case of NDIS-funded clients, diagnostic assessments and reports are covered by the NDIS package.
Therapy
Speech pathologists treat children with difficulty using their voices, producing words or understanding what others say. They work with young kids in kindergartens and schools, hospitals, early intervention programs, community health centres and private practice. For more speech pathologist services Adelaide, check this out.
As adults, speech pathologists help clients improve their communication ability by using signs, symbols or other forms of assisted communication, such as a voice synthesiser (computer software) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They also work with people who have difficulty swallowing food or drinks.
The routine inclusion of SPs in interprofessional mental health teams is an essential goal for Australia as the NDIS rolls out. However, this is not happening in practice – participants reported that they did not think about or include SPs as core members of their team for mental health support. [22]
Reports
Speech pathologists provide a written report at the end of their assessment and therapy sessions. The report includes a description of the client’s problem and their goals for treatment, along with suggestions for further intervention. The report provides advice and information for the client’s family and carers. The client decides who they want to receive a copy of the report.
Speech-language pathologists often work with clients whose communication problems are primarily due to dysphagia. To assess and treat these patients, the speech pathologist may recommend that the patient undergo a swallowing and mealtime evaluation. It involves a detailed history, physical examination of the mouth and throat muscles, and observation of eating and drinking.
Referrals
Speech pathologists (speech therapists) work with people of all ages who have difficulties with communication and swallowing/mealtimes. They work with you and your family or carer to develop a personalised treatment plan to improve your quality of life. You can access these services through the NDIS, Medicare with a doctor’s referral or private health insurance.
People who have difficulty with their voice, use of language and fluency or with eating and drinking can become frustrated and isolated. It can lead to negative attitudes and beliefs about a person’s abilities.
The Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (TQEH) provide specialist assessment and management of swallowing and communication difficulties through the Day Rehabilitation Service. Patients with swallowing presentations that require a radiological swallow study and a joint ENT/Speech Pathology evaluation are referred to the RAH/TQEH Swallow Studies clinics. The clinics operate daily. Refer to the outpatient map below for your designated clinic location.
Experiencing difficulty with your speech, language, or articulation can affect your daily life. A professional who specialises in these disorders can help. Known as a speech-language pathologist or therapists, they work with people of all ages to improve their ability to communicate and swallow. These professionals work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation facilities and private practices.
