Speech Pathology
Support for communication, language, and swallowing.
Speech pathology supports people who experience difficulties with communication, language, or swallowing, whether these arise from developmental delays, stroke, brain injury, learning or intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dementia, or hearing loss. GRS speech pathologists work with clients across the lifespan, tailoring sessions to individual needs rather than applying a generic program. For some clients this means developing spoken language and improving understanding, while for others it involves building practical communication skills for social interaction, addressing motor speech difficulties, or supporting literacy development. Speech pathology at GRS also covers swallowing and mealtime support, which is particularly important for clients at risk of feeding difficulties. Sessions are customised to each person's goals and stage of life, and can support important transitions, such as starting school or moving into employment, where communication skills play a central role. Behavioural and emotional regulation support may also form part of therapy, recognising that communication difficulties often intersect with broader wellbeing. Throughout, the focus stays on helping each client communicate and eat safely in the ways that matter most to their daily life.
Our Approach
GRS speech pathology begins with a tailored assessment of a client's communication or swallowing needs, using recognised tools appropriate to their age and presentation. From there, therapists work collaboratively with clients and families to set goals that reflect real, everyday priorities, whether that's building spoken language, supporting mealtime safety, or preparing for a transition such as starting school. As an NDIS-registered provider, GRS aligns therapy planning and reporting with plan goals and funding requirements. Sessions can be delivered across clinic, telehealth, and community settings, allowing flexibility for clients of different ages and circumstances. Where communication or swallowing needs intersect with broader developmental, physical or behavioural goals, speech pathologists collaborate with occupational therapists, psychologists, and other allied health professionals to keep support coordinated. Goals and strategies are reviewed regularly to ensure therapy continues to reflect a client's progress and changing needs, always grounded in a person-centred approach that respects each client's communication style and preferences.
Key benefits
- Developing spoken language
- Enhancing language understanding
- Improving practical language skills for social interaction
- Communication strategy development
- Assistive technology provision
- Addressing motor speech disorders and dyspraxia
- Literacy improvement
- Behavioural management and emotional regulation support
What We Offer
Communication
Building spoken language, understanding, and social communication skills.
Swallowing & Mealtime
Dysphagia assessment and safe, supported mealtime management.
Assistive Technology
AAC assessment and prescription for non-verbal or limited-speech clients.
- Dysphasia (speech) assessment and intervention
- Dysphagia (swallowing) assessment and mealtime management
- Feeding assessment and Sequential-Oral-Sensory (SOS) feeding interventions
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) assessment and prescription
- Communication skills training using standardised assessments (CELF Preschool-3, PLS-5)
- School-based learning and productivity assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can speech pathology help?
Speech pathology at GRS supports people of all ages experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties, including those related to developmental delay, stroke, brain injury, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dementia or hearing loss. Support can range from language development to mealtime safety and social communication skills.
What happens in a first speech pathology session?
Your first session will involve an assessment of your communication or swallowing needs, using tools suited to your age and situation. The speech pathologist will discuss your goals and daily challenges with you or your family, then begin developing a therapy plan tailored to your circumstances.
Is speech pathology funded by the NDIS?
Yes, speech pathology is a commonly funded NDIS support, and GRS is a registered provider. Whether it's included in your plan depends on your individual goals, so our team can help clarify this during your first consultation or plan review.
Does GRS offer telehealth speech pathology?
Yes, speech pathology sessions can be delivered via telehealth as well as in clinic or community settings, depending on what suits the client best. This flexibility can be especially helpful for families balancing school, work, or travel considerations.
How does speech pathology support swallowing difficulties?
Speech pathologists assess swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, and provide mealtime management strategies to support safe eating and drinking. This can include feeding assessments and tailored interventions for clients experiencing feeding challenges, particularly children and older adults.
How do I get started with GRS speech pathology?
You can begin with a referral from a GP, paediatrician, or support coordinator, or by contacting GRS directly. Our team will discuss your or your family member's needs and NDIS plan, then arrange an initial assessment to guide the therapy approach.
Can speech pathology help adults, or is it mainly for children?
Speech pathology at GRS supports people across the full lifespan, not just children. Adults recovering from stroke or brain injury, or living with conditions like dementia or hearing loss, can also benefit from speech pathology support tailored to their communication or swallowing needs.
What does AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) involve?
AAC refers to tools and strategies that support communication for people who are non-verbal or have limited speech, ranging from picture-based systems to speech-generating devices. GRS speech pathologists assess individual needs and recommend the AAC approach best suited to each client.
Ready to get started with Speech Pathology?
Refer a client or get in touch with our team.