Speech therapy supports communication, speech clarity, language, literacy, fluency, voice and related communication needs. It may be helpful for children, adults and families who need clearer guidance around communication development or communication changes.

Who may benefit from speech therapy?

Speech therapy is not only for one type of difficulty. It can support a wide range of communication needs across different ages.

Common reasons people book

• Speech sound difficulties or unclear speech
• Language delay or difficulty understanding and using language
• Literacy and school-related communication concerns
• Stuttering or fluency difficulties
• Voice concerns
• Communication changes after stroke or neurological conditions
• Auditory processing or listening concerns that affect communication

What happens first?

Therapy usually begins with an assessment. The assessment helps identify the person’s strengths, areas of difficulty and the most appropriate goals. Feedback is then provided so the family or patient understands what is happening and what the next step should be.

What does therapy involve?

Therapy is tailored to the person. For children, therapy may include play-based or structured activities depending on the goal. For adults, therapy may focus on functional communication, clarity, confidence, voice, fluency or rehabilitation needs.

Good therapy should be practical. The aim is not only to perform well in the therapy room, but to support communication in everyday life.

When should a child be assessed?

A child may benefit from assessment if speech is unclear, language seems delayed, instructions are difficult to follow, literacy is affected, stuttering is present or parents and teachers are concerned about communication.

Speech therapy and hearing

Hearing access can affect speech and language development. When relevant, audiology may be recommended alongside speech therapy so that listening, hearing and communication are considered together.