A. Speech therapy helps people of all ages with their communication and feeding/swallowing difficulties. Speech pathologists use a range of behavioural and environmental interventions and tools to improve communication and confidence in clients.
A. If you are concerned, a speech therapy assessment (and therapy) can occur at any stage of your child’s development. Evidence does tell us, however, that early intervention is best. Waiting to see if children ‘outgrow’ communication or feeding delays is no longer recommended as these delays can lead to long-term communication and feeding difficulties. Untreated communication or feeding delays can also impact academic learning and mental health.
A referral from daycare, school, or another health professional may be another indicator that your child may benefit from an assessment or speech therapy. Please note that you do not need a referral to see a speech therapist and you can self-refer.
A. Lotus Speech Pathology session fees are in line with current NDIS prices. Please contact us for a copy of our current fee schedule and funding options for services.
A. Yes. To qualify for online speech therapy Medicare rebates for your child’s session (5 appointments per calendar year), you must have a referral from your doctor.
A. Online speech therapy sessions at Lotus Speech Pathology are conducted via the secure platform Zoom, and we often find that clients can access our services more easily with telehealth.
For babies and toddlers, online speech therapy sessions will include carer coaching and feedback about techniques used. Speech therapy that is done in-clinic or face-to-face for this age group focuses on the same techniques, meaning that the interaction changes very little via Zoom – it’s just more convenient for busy carers to attend.
For pre-schoolers, it is most likely there will be some ‘direct’ therapy with your child online. This will likely include some online therapy activities and games or utilising real-life toys. Carer coaching is also an essential component of therapy for this age group (and all age groups). An advantage of telehealth is that we can use your child’s own environment – such as the toys they use every day – to practise their skills right where they will be using them.
For school-aged children and teens, online speech therapy is likely to be a mixture of online interactions, games and learning activities with your speech therapist, as well as carer feedback.
A. Yes! There are several studies that show both online assessments and therapy are effective in identifying and treating communication difficulties. Please see here for more info.
A. This depends on your fund and level of coverage. It is recommended you contact your health fund to determine if online speech therapy is included in your policy.
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