Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed, however if you would like to access the Medicare rebate option, you will need a CDM care plan from your GP.

Question 2

How can my child reach their speech/myofunctional goals more quickly?

Accepted Answer

By incorporating it in day-to-day activities. Speech practice can be fun and do not always have to be paper based. Games such as eye spy or go fish can create a fun opportunity to target the speech sounds your child is working on. Myofunctional therapy exercises can be practiced in games too.

Question 3

Is there a minimum age for a speech therapy assessment?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum age for a speech therapy assessment. I see children as young as 18 months, but if you have concerns about your child’s development and they are under this age, please feel free to contact me. I can connect you with health providers who have expertise with this age group.

Question 4

How is speech pathology and myofunctional therapy linked?

Accepted Answer

Effective communication and optimal functioning involves more than just words. That's why I provide a comprehensive approach that includes both speech therapy and myofunctional therapy. Speech therapy improves speech, language, and communication skills, while myofunctional therapy addresses the muscle functions of the tongue, lips, and jaw, which can impact speech clarity, chewing, swallowing, breathing, and oral function. Indicators that a myofunctional assessment might be needed include mouth breathing, snoring, restless sleep, and poor focus and attention.

Question 5

Why do you request information about my child’s sleep, eating, breathing and medical history?

Accepted Answer

The body is more interconnected than many people realise, particularly regarding oral functions such as eating, sleeping, speaking, and facial muscles. Collecting this information helps me identify root issues and gain a more holistic understanding of your child, leading to more effective therapy.

Question 6

My child has a diagnosis you haven’t mentioned; can we still see you?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! If I determine that other health professionals should be part of your child’s care team or are better suited to their needs, I will happily refer you to them.

Question 7

Do you write Language Development Centre/school applications and NDIS applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please feel free to enquire for more information if needed.

Question 8

Can you diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Accepted Answer

I don't diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), but I can identify potential signs and recommend professionals who specialise in ASD assessments. If I observe flags, I may suggest pursuing an ASD assessment if it seems appropriate.

Paediatric Speech Pathology & Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

Frequently asked questions