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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does a Speech Pathologist do?
    A Speech Pathologist helps children and adults with communication and feeding skills. This can include speech clarity, understanding and using language, social communication, literacy, stuttering, voice, and swallowing. At Each Speech Pear Plum, we specialise in supporting children aged 0–8 years with speech sound disorders, early language, early literacy, and functional communication.
  • How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?
    If you’ve noticed your child is having difficulty being understood, understanding others, expressing themselves, learning new words, following instructions, or interacting socially, it’s worth seeking advice. You don’t need to be certain — part of our role is to assess your child’s skills and guide you on whether therapy is needed, what type, and how often. Not sure if therapy is the next step? We’ve got you covered! We offer 30-minute Consultative Guidance Calls. We chat with you, answer your burning questions and help you figure out the best way to support your child. Whether you’re on our waitlist or just trying to decide if therapy is right, a call could be a great solution.
  • At what age should I consider speech therapy for my child?
    It’s never too early to seek advice. We see children from birth onwards, and early support can make a big difference. If you have concerns — even if your child is a toddler — an initial consultation can help you understand whether therapy, monitoring, or simple home strategies are the best next step.
  • Do I need a referral to see a Speech Pathologist?
    No referral needed. You can book an appointment with us directly. However, if your GP has given you a Medicare plan, you may be eligible for some handy rebates to help cover the cost.
  • What is your approach to working with children?
    We use a child-led, play-based, and neuro-affirming approach. This means we follow your child’s interests, build on their strengths, and create an environment where they feel safe, understood, and motivated. We believe that therapy works best when it’s built on trust and connection, and we work closely with families to help you feel confident supporting your child outside of sessions.
  • Do you work with all ages and needs?
    We currently work with children aged 0–8 years, focusing on speech sound disorders, early language, early literacy, and functional communication. If your child’s needs fall outside these areas, we’ll do our best to connect you with a service that’s a better fit.
  • How do you decide how often my child will have therapy?
    We base our recommendations on your child’s needs, goals, and the best available evidence — not just on diary availability. After the initial appointment, we’ll discuss the type, frequency, and format of therapy that will give your child the best chance of progress, while also considering your family’s capacity.
  • Do I need a service agreement before starting therapy?
    Yes — all families have a signed service agreement in place before starting ongoing therapy, regardless of whether sessions are NDIS-funded or privately funded. This agreement outlines: The supports we’ll provide Your child’s goals The frequency and type of sessions Fees and payment terms Our key policies Having a service agreement ensures clarity, transparency, and mutual understanding from the very beginning. It also means you know exactly what to expect and how we’ll work together to support your child’s progress.
  • Why don’t you offer ongoing appointments before the initial appointment?
    At Each Speech Pear Plum, our initial appointment is an important first step. It’s where we: Get to know your child and family Complete any necessary assessment Understand your goals and your child’s needs This information allows us to make evidence-based recommendations about the most appropriate therapy pathway — including the type, frequency, and format of ongoing sessions — so that any time we book is purposeful and best supports your child’s progress. It also gives us the chance to begin building the child–clinician connection, which is a vital part of therapy success, and to ensure that we’re the right fit for each other before committing to an ongoing schedule. Booking ongoing therapy before this step can sometimes mean committing to a plan that doesn’t actually suit your child’s needs. By waiting until after the initial session, we can make sure we’re setting your child up for success from the very beginning. If we agree to proceed with ongoing therapy, we’ll put a service agreement in place before sessions start. This ensures clarity, transparency, and mutual understanding from day one.
  • What happens if we decide not to continue after the initial appointment?
    That’s completely fine. We’ll provide recommendations for next steps, which may include home strategies or referrals to other services. If you do choose to continue with us, we’ll finalise a service agreement before starting ongoing therapy so expectations are clear and everyone is on the same page.
  • What are my options for the first appointment?
    We offer two pathways depending on your situation: Getting Started — for all new families. Includes two assessment sessions, a parent feedback session, and an optional written report if required. Moving Therapist — for families transferring from another speech pathologist. Includes a ‘get to know you’ session, a parent planning session, and (with consent) a clinical handover with your child’s previous therapist.
  • Why do I need two sessions for Getting Started?
    This structure allows us to gather a complete picture of your child’s communication — often across different settings — and ensures assessment is paced in a child-friendly way.
  • Do I need a written report to start therapy?
    No. Written reports are optional and only needed for schools, GPs, or NDIS purposes. Most families move directly into therapy after the parent feedback session.
  • Why do you include a parent feedback session?
    We believe families are central to therapy success. The feedback session gives us time to explain results, share recommendations, and collaborate on therapy goals before ongoing appointments begin.
  • Why do you have a “Moving Therapist” pathway?
    When a family changes providers, we respect the work already done. This pathway ensures therapy continues smoothly by reviewing prior history, discussing your priorities, and (with consent) connecting with your child’s previous therapist.
  • Do you do formal assessments in the first session?
    Generally, our first session is more of a ‘get to know you’ screening to see how your child is doing. If we notice something that needs a closer look, we might recommend a formal assessment for another day. That way, we can focus on the areas that matter most.
  • Can I book an initial consultation without a report?
    Yes. Written reports are now optional, which helps us keep services more affordable for families. Many families are happy to move straight into therapy after the assessment and parent feedback session without a report. If you do need a written report (for school, GP, or NDIS purposes), we can prepare one for you at an additional cost.
  • What do I need to bring to the first session?
    Please bring any reports from other professionals, any relevant medical or developmental history, and a list of your questions or concerns. If your child uses a communication device or system, please bring it along.
  • What happens during a speech therapy session?
    Therapy sessions are all about fun and learning. We use play, activities and structured tasks to work on your child’s goals. At the end, we’ll chat with you about what we did, any progress we noticed and how you can continue supporting your child at home.
  • How long do speech therapy sessions last?
    Our sessions are booked for an hour, but the therapy part usually takes about 45 minutes. The extra time lets us write session notes, prepare resources for home practice and send you a session summary. If you’d like, we can share these notes with your child’s teacher/educator too.
  • How do you measure progress?
    We keep track of everything! We record your child’s progress in each session and check in with you regularly to review how they’re going with their therapy goals. It’s all about making sure we’re on the right track and celebrating those milestones together.
  • How long does my child need speech therapy?
    It’s like asking how long a piece of string is. Every child is different—some make super speedy progress, while others might need a bit more time. We’ll work at your child’s pace, celebrating each little win along the way.
  • Can I choose a fortnightly or monthly appointment instead of weekly?
    Sometimes — but only if it aligns with best-practice recommendations for your child’s goals. For many children, weekly sessions help build momentum and maintain progress. If less frequent sessions are possible without slowing progress, we’ll discuss that after the initial appointment.
  • Do you offer “just a few sessions” or “try it and see”?
    We can sometimes offer short-term programs, especially if your child’s needs are very specific or if we’re trialling a particular approach. We’ll always recommend the option that will give your child the best chance to succeed.
  • Why can’t I book after-school appointments?
    We have limited after-school spots, which are prioritised for children who truly can’t attend during school hours. Many children actually make better progress in earlier sessions when they’re fresher and less tired from the school day.
  • Do you work during school holidays?
    Yes — therapy can continue in the holidays, and it’s often a great time for progress. School-based appointments may shift to clinic or mobile sessions, and we can also offer telehealth or home programs if you’re away.
  • Can I stay in the room during my child’s session?
    Often, yes — especially for younger children or when parent coaching is part of the plan. In some cases, your child may work better without you in the room. We’ll discuss what’s best for your child’s goals and comfort.
  • What if my child isn’t cooperative during the session?
    That’s okay — it’s part of working with children. We’ll adjust activities, take breaks, and work with you to find strategies that support engagement.
  • How can I help my child at home?
    We’ll give you specific activities and strategies tailored to your child’s goals. Even a few minutes of practice each day can make a big difference.
  • Do you see NDIS clients?
    Yes — we work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants under the Capacity Building: Improved Daily Living category. We do not see agency-managed participants.
  • What happens if my NDIS plan changes or runs out?
    It’s important to monitor your funding so your therapy can continue without disruption. If your plan changes or runs out, we’ll discuss options such as adjusting your schedule, pausing services, or providing a home program until new funding is in place.
  • How much does speech therapy cost?
    Our fees align with the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits for therapy services. We’ll provide a full fee schedule before your first appointment.
  • Where are you located and do you offer mobile services?
    Our clinic is in Indooroopilly. We offer mobile services within a limited area for Allied Health Assistant (AHA) sessions only. Speech Pathologist sessions are clinic-based to ensure the best use of therapy time and resources.
  • Do you offer telehealth sessions?
    Yes — telehealth can be a great option if you can’t attend in person. We’ll let you know if it’s suitable for your child’s goals and therapy needs.
  • What should I do if I need to cancel an appointment?
    Please let us know as soon as possible. Our cancellation policy is designed to protect your child’s progress and the sustainability of our service. In many cases, we can offer alternatives like telehealth or a home program instead of cancelling.
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