Frequently Asked Questions

What is speech therapy, and how can it help my child?

Speech pathology involves assessment and therapy to help children with speech, language, or communication difficulties. It can address a range of issues, including difficulty with: Pronouncing words, understanding language, forming sentences, literacy, swallowing, fluency (stuttering) and social communication differences. A Speech Pathologist (SP) works with clients and their support systems to assess and treat these issues.

What is the difference between a Speech Pathologist, Speech Therapist, and a Speech Language Pathologist?

In short, nothing! You should ensure your Speech Pathologist holds a relevant qualification (e.g. Bachelor or Master of Speech Pathology) and is registered with Speech Pathology Australia (SPA)

What is the difference between a Speech Pathologist (SP) and a Key Worker?

Speech Pathologist:

• A Speech Pathologist in Australia is a qualified healthcare professional who specialises in assessing, diagnosing, and treating speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders.

• They hold a degree in speech pathology (usually a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree) and are typically required to be registered with the Speech Pathology Australia (SPA), the national body overseeing the profession.

Key Worker:

• A Key Worker is typically someone who provides support and coordination for children and families, particularly in the context of early childhood intervention and family-centered services.

• The role of a key worker is broader and more holistic. They are not necessarily specialists in any one field like speech pathology, however they may be a qualified Allied Health Professional, or be experts in child development - such as a specialist teacher.

• Key workers :

  • Work with families to create individualised plans for their child’s development.

  • Serve as the main point of contact for families, providing support across multiple areas. They work closely with other allied health including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other areas to deliver support.

  • Help with the delivery of early intervention services, particularly for children with developmental delays, disabilities, or other special needs.

At what age should I be concerned if my child is not speaking yet?

Children develop language skills at different rates, but if a child is not using single words by the age of 18 months or isn’t putting together simple sentences by age 3, it might be a sign that they need some help. If you have concerns, speak to your General Practitioner, Maternal Child Health Nurse or book an appointment. You do not need a referral to see a Speech Pathologist. It may be a good idea to get a hearing test also!

What are some signs that my child may need speech therapy?

Signs that a child may need speech therapy include difficulty pronouncing words clearly, problems with understanding or using language, limited vocabulary for their age, trouble following instructions, difficulties with social communication -such as having trouble taking turns in conversation, difficulty meeting their nutritional needs (feeding and swallowing) and/or fluency issues (stuttering).