Assessment
An initial assessment and planning session is typically the first step in accessing services. This allows us to gain an understanding of the service needs (e.g., frequency), set realistic and evidence-based individualised goals and/or provide comprehensive recommendations about what is required next. An assessment also includes an interview with the parent and/or guardian or the individual themselves.
Multiple assessments may be carried out to comprehensively determine needs (e.g., a speech sound assessment AND language assessment) and it is often recommended that at least two separate sessions are used to complete assessments. Assessment sessions usually last 60-90 minutes. This ensures you and/or the child can remain engaged, and we can gather the most accurate information relating to development and needs.
An assessment may not always result in ongoing therapy sessions however an assessment report and detailed recommendations or home programs will always be provided as part of this service.
Where ongoing therapy sessions are recommended, this will be subject to the availability of the speech pathologist and being waitlisted may result.
What should I have prepared for a Speech Pathology Assessment?
We recommend that parents bring anything that makes their child feel comfortable.
For older children and adults, a favourite toy, game or book is a great way for us to get to know you and your interests.
A snack and a drink. Please note: For mealtime assessments, a specific list of food and drink items will be provided to you ahead of the appointment to ensure this service can be appropriately carried out.
We also ask that you bring any reports or other documentation such as assessments from other professionals (such as Occupational Therapists or Physiotherapists), hearing test results or letters from your doctor. It is also important for us to know if you have seen a speech pathologist before.
Please contact us for a quote today!