How Our Initial Speech Pathology Appointment Process Works — And Why It’s Worth It

When you’re ready to start speech therapy for your child, it’s natural to want regular sessions as soon as possible. We get it — you’re eager for support, and you don’t want to lose precious time.

That’s why our very first step is an initial appointment before booking ongoing therapy. It’s not about creating hoops to jump through — it’s about making sure your child gets the right support, at the right time, in the right way.

Why We Start Here

The initial appointment is much more than a “meet and greet.” It’s where we:

• Get to know your child and your family’s priorities

• Complete assessment and observation to understand your child’s strengths and challenges

• Discuss your child’s goals and the outcomes that matter most to you

• Begin building the child–clinician connection — essential for therapy success

This step allows us to make informed, evidence-based recommendations. Without it, we’d be guessing at the type, frequency, and format of therapy your child needs — and guessing isn’t good enough.

Why It Helps You Get the Right Spot Sooner

One of the biggest concerns parents have is paying for an assessment and then waiting months for therapy. Our process is designed to prevent that.

Because we triage after the initial appointment, if a greater or more urgent need is identified, we can prioritise that child to start sooner. This ensures children who need immediate support aren’t left waiting unnecessarily, and it also keeps our overall waitlist short.

Our Current Wait Times

Right now, our wait time for most services is very short.

• Afternoon clinic-based sessions with Erin (2:00–4:45 pm) — our highest-demand time, with the longest wait of any service we offer

• Afternoon mobile sessions with our Allied Health Assistants — immediate availability

• Morning or early afternoon mobile sessions with Erin — available sooner than PM SP sessions

Our Allied Health Assistant service is highly skilled, works under Erin’s direct guidance and supervision, and is a cost-effective way for families to access more therapy hours and maintain momentum between Speech Pathologist-led sessions.

What Happens After the Initial Appointment

Once we’ve completed the first session, we will:

1. Review our recommendations with you — including therapy type, session length, and frequency

2. Offer the first suitable ongoing appointment times that align with your child’s needs and your availability

3. Finalise a service agreement so expectations are clear and everyone is on the same page

Why It’s Worth the First Step

Starting with an initial appointment means:

• You’re not locked into a schedule that doesn’t suit your child

• Therapy time and resources are used effectively

• Urgent cases can start sooner — including yours, if it’s needed

• Your child’s needs are understood from the very start

It’s the first step in setting your child up for success — and it’s worth it.

For more information or to book an assessment, visit Each Speech Pear Plum or contact us directly. We’re here to support your child’s journey to better communication, ensuring they have the most fun along the way.