Speech pathologists are trained in a range of communication disorders. It includes articulation, phonological disorders, and voice problems such as chronic cough and paradoxical vocal fold dysfunction.
When looking for a speech therapy specialist Adelaide pathology services, it is essential to consider their qualifications, clinical specialisation and previous experience. It will help you choose the right pathologist for your child’s needs.
Assessment
Speech Pathologists are trained to assess the nature of your child’s communication difficulties. It may involve formal standardised tests, informal assessment through observation and play, or both. A comprehensive written report is usually provided detailing the results and recommendations. The best outcome is achieved when the Speech Pathologist has the whole picture before developing a plan to address your concerns. It allows the Speech Pathologist to build a trusting relationship with your child and establish an environment where they can flourish.
Children experiencing difficulties with their speech and language can access support services through their preschool or school. They can also be referred to an adult Speech Pathology service through a family doctor, allied health practitioner or hospital ward.
Speech and language skills are crucial to a person’s ability to connect with others and function in society. It includes verbal and non-verbal communication, understanding others’ speech, articulation (sound production), reading and spelling. Children unable to communicate effectively can become isolated and have difficulty accessing the educational opportunities they deserve.
If you are considering applying to study Speech Pathology, it is essential to consider the career pathways this degree opens up. You could help children with autism and other disabilities connect with their peers, assist people with a stroke to regain their abilities to communicate and swallow or work as part of a team helping adults in end-of-life care.
The Bachelor of Speech Pathology at the University of Adelaide provides 800+ hours of clinical placement in various metropolitan and rural settings. Students are introduced to clinical posts in their third year of study and continue participating throughout their program until graduation.
The Royal Adelaide Hospital and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital provide a comprehensive day rehabilitation service for adults who experience dysphagia (difficulty eating). Speech therapy specialist Adelaide Pathologists at these sites are involved in assessing, managing and treating communication and swallowing disorders for this population group. The service is supported by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals, including Occupational Therapists and Psychologists.
Treatment
Speech-language therapy improves your ability to communicate with others and express yourself in clear and understandable ways. It can also help you think better and solve problems. Your therapist will create a treatment plan that may include exercises, activities and techniques for you to practise at home. The treatment process usually lasts a few months or longer.
Finding a specialist with the right qualifications is essential if your child has a speech or language disorder. You can ask your child’s doctor for a referral or look online. State associations for speech therapy specialist Adelaide pathology and Audiology, keep directories of qualified therapists. Your child’s school may have a list of therapists who work with their students.
In the first few sessions, your therapist will examine your child’s speech and language skills to determine their needed treatment. They will then develop a plan for your child’s needs and goals. Your therapist will teach you and your child different exercises you can practice together. The more you and your child practice these techniques, the more they will improve.
You and your therapist can practise exercises focusing on the tongue, mouth, throat or face. They can also try things like reading out loud and playing word games. These games can help you improve your memory and thinking skills.
Sometimes the larynx can weaken with age, affecting our ability to speak clearly or swallow food. There is a procedure called a vocal fold injection which is performed under local anaesthetic and takes around 10 minutes. Dr Theo is the only ENT surgeon in Adelaide who uses HD stroboscopes for this procedure, giving him a more accurate diagnosis than older fibre optic scopes. It has been highly successful for patients with a weakened voice. He has performed hundreds of these interventions in his city office and hospital operating rooms.
