Frequently Asked Questions
Two decades ago, Caroline and Renee met while studying speech pathology at UQ. Today, they lead Brisbane and Mackay's most comprehensive pediatric speech and feeding therapy team. With additional training in PROMPT, SOS Feeding, Sounds Write, DIR Floortime, Gestalt language Processing, Hanen More Than Words, PODD & more, we're equipped to support every child's unique journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
All Questions
Do you have long waitlists?
No! With many experienced clinicians across three locations, we maintain minimal waitlists. We'll always communicate clearly about availability.
Do you offer home visits?
Yes! We provide therapy at home, school, kindy, or via telehealth – whatever works for your family.
Do you accept NDIS?
Yes, we're an experienced NDIS provider supporting self-managed and plan-managed participants.
How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?
If you're concerned, trust your instincts. Call us for a free phone consultation to chat with our administration team or request a discovery call to discuss your child's development with a speech pathologist.
What ages do you see?
We support children from 12 months to 18 years old.
My 18-month-old isn't talking yet. Is it too early for speech therapy?
No, it's not too early! We see children from 12 months. Early intervention delivers the best outcomes. Even if your toddler just needs monitoring, we can provide strategies and peace of mind.
What's the difference between a late talker and a language disorder?
Late talkers have delayed speech but often catch up with support. Language disorders involve ongoing difficulties with understanding and/or expression. Our assessment helps determine which applies to your child and the best support approach.
Will teaching signs stop my toddler from talking?
Actually, the opposite! Research shows Key Word Sign encourages speech development. Signs reduce frustration while speech develops, and children naturally drop signs as words emerge.
How long will my child need early intervention therapy?
Every child is different. Some late talkers need just 3-6 months of support, while others benefit from ongoing therapy through preschool. We regularly review progress and adjust our approach.
Do you work with children with autism or developmental delays?
Absolutely. Our team has extensive training in supporting neurodivergent children. We use approaches like More Than Words® and DIR/Floortime, tailoring therapy to each child's unique profile.
Can grandparents or educators attend sessions?
Yes! Anyone involved in your child's care is welcome. We encourage consistency across all environments. Many families include grandparents, nannies, or educators in sessions.
Will you force my child to eat foods they hate?
Never. The SOS Approach is completely non-coercive. We use play and gradual exposure to build comfort. Children choose what and how much to eat. We just make it easier for them to try.
My child only eats beige foods (nuggets, chips, bread). Is this common?
Very common! Many fussy eaters prefer beige, crunchy foods as they're predictable and non-threatening. We use "food chaining" to gradually introduce variety, starting with similar textures and slowly branching out.
How is feeding therapy different from seeing a dietitian alone?
Dietitians focus on nutrition and what to eat. Feeding therapists address why children can't or won't eat certain foods, working on oral motor skills, sensory processing, and behavior. We collaborate with our dietitian in our multididciplinare feeding clinic for optimal comprehensive care, but can also consult with external dietitians of your choice.
My child gags just looking at vegetables. Can this really change?
Yes! Gagging is often a learned protective response. Through systematic desensitization and positive experiences, most children can learn to tolerate and eventually enjoy previously challenging foods.
Is feeding therapy covered by NDIS?
Yes, if feeding difficulties relate to disability or developmental delay. We support self-managed and plan-managed participants. Our reports clearly outline therapy goals for NDIS reviews.
Should siblings attend feeding therapy sessions?
Initially, we prefer 1:1 sessions to focus on your child's specific needs. Once strategies are established, siblings can join for family meal practice sessions. We also run Food Explorer groups for multiple children.
Do you provide services at Aspley area schools?
Yes! We visit Queen of Apostles, Zillmere State School, Norris Road State School, Aspley State School, Aspley East State School, Craigslea State School, and other local schools. We can provide therapy during school hours with parental and school consent.
Is there parking available for prams and wheelchairs?
Absolutely. The Aspley Homemaker Centre has ample disabled parking bays, and our clinic on Level 1 is fully accessible via lift. The corridors are wide enough for prams and wheelchairs.
What are your Aspley clinic hours?
Monday-Friday: 7:30am - 5:30pm (last appointment 5pm)
Saturday: 8:30am - 12:30pm (group programs and selected appointments)
Do you bulk bill or accept Medicare?
We do not bulk however we can provide you with a receipt containing the relevant referrer information so that you can claim a rebate via your MyGov app if you are eligible. You may be eligible for Medicare rebates with a GP referral and Chronic Disease Management Plan. We'll help you understand the process.
How far do you travel for home visits from Aspley?
We provide home visits within approximately 5km of our Aspley clinic, including Zillmere, Taigum, Bridgeman Downs, Carseldine, Albany Creek, and surrounding suburbs.
How far do you travel for home visits from Ormiston?
We provide home visits throughout the Redlands region, including Cleveland, Wellington Point, Victoria Point, Redland Bay, and surrounding suburbs within approximately 15km of our clinic.
Is there a quiet space for children with sensory needs?
Yes, our Ormiston clinic has a calm corner with sensory tools and can adjust lighting and sound levels for children with sensory sensitivities.
How do I know which therapist is right for my child?
Our admin team will match your child based on their needs, age, and personality. We consider factors like specialisation (e.g., feeding vs speech), experience level, and therapy style.
Can we change therapists if it's not working out?
Absolutely. We want the best fit for your child. Just speak with Danielle, our Practice Manager, and we'll arrange a smooth transition.
Are your therapists qualified to work with NDIS participants?
Yes, all our therapists meet NDIS provider standards. We work with self-managed and plan-managed participants.
Do you have therapists who specialise in autism?
Yes, all team members have additional autism training. Advanced training includes Hanen More Than Words, DIR/Floortime), PECS and social communication programs.
How much experience do your therapists have?
Our team ranges from 1-20 years experience, with an average of 5 years. Senior therapists mentor newer graduates, ensuring quality across all experience levels.
My child has been diagnosed with dyslexia. Can you help?
Yes! Our Sounds-Write trained therapists specialise in supporting students with dyslexia. We use systematic, evidence-based approaches proven to help with reading and spelling difficulties.
Will you liaise with my child's teacher?
With your written consent, absolutely. We can share strategies, provide progress updates, and ensure consistency between therapy and classroom. Many teachers appreciate the additional support.
How is this different from school learning support?
School learning support is fantastic but often limited by resources and group settings. Our 1:1 therapy provides intensive, individualised intervention with specialised techniques tailored to your child by the speech pathologist, that schools may not offer.
Can therapy happen during school hours?
We can provide therapy at school (where agreements exist) or in-clinic during school hours for homeschooled students or with school permission. Most families prefer after-school sessions.
Do you provide reports for NDIS reviews?
Yes, we provide comprehensive progress reports suitable for NDIS plan reviews, school support meetings, and pediatrician updates.
How do I know if my child is ready for group therapy?
Most children benefit from groups once they can tolerate being with 3-4 peers for 45-60 minutes. We assess group readiness during the eligibility session. Some children start with individual therapy then transition to groups.
What if my child is disruptive or has challenging behaviors?
Our therapists are experienced with behavior management. We use positive behavior support, visual schedules, and sensory breaks. If significant challenges arise, we'll work with you on strategies or recommend individual therapy first.
Can my child join mid-term/mid holiday period if a spot becomes available?
Generally, we prefer children start at term/holiday beginning for group cohesion. However, for established groups with good dynamics, we occasionally accept mid-term entries. We'll assess case-by-case.
Are parents allowed to observe sessions?
For the first session, parents often stay nearby. After that, we find children engage better without parent presence. We provide detailed feedback and encourage questions. Parent training groups obviously include parents throughout!
What Happens if we miss a GROUP session
Life happens! While we can't offer make-up sessions for groups, we'll provide session notes and home activities. Missing 1-2 sessions per term is manageable; more may impact progress and group dynamics.
How are groups different from individual therapy?
Groups offer peer modeling, social practice, and motivation through shared activities. Individual therapy provides intensive 1:1 support for specific needs. Many children benefit from both at different times.
Is this the same as speech therapy for my child?
No, this is training for adults to support children's communication. Your child doesn't attend these sessions. It's about empowering you with strategies to use between therapy sessions or instead of therapy for mild concerns.
Parent training
Absolutely! Our training is open to all families and professionals. Many participants aren't current clients. The strategies work regardless of whether your child receives therapy.
Will NDIS fund parent training?
Yes, if your child's plan includes capacity building funding for parent training. Hanen programs and feeding workshops often qualify. We provide invoices with appropriate item numbers.
Can you train our entire school/centre staff?
Yes! We regularly provide professional development days for schools and childcare centres. We can train up to 30 staff members and customise content to your needs.
What if I can't attend all sessions of a multi-week program?
For Hanen programs, attendance at all sessions is required for certification. For other workshops, we can discuss options. All participants receive session materials.
Do you service Redlands schools?
Yes! We regularly visit Ormiston State School, Cleveland State School, Wellington Point State School, Faith Lutheran College, Sheldon College, and other local schools for therapy and teacher consultation.
Is the clinic accessible by public transport?
Absolutely! We're a 3-minute walk from Ormiston Train Station on the Cleveland line. Several bus routes also stop nearby. Many families find the train easier than driving.
What are your Ormiston clinic hours?
Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday: 8:30am - 12:30pm (groups and selected appointments)
We offer after-school appointments from 3:30pm.
Do you have connections with Redlands Hospital?
Yes, we work closely with Redlands Hospital's pediatric team and often receive referrals. We can provide reports for hospital specialists and coordinate care.
Help Your Child Communicate, Learn & Thrive
Whether it's a late talker, fussy eater, literacy challenges, or complex communication needs, our experienced team is here to support your family's journey.
Speak directly with our friendly admin team
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Why call us directly:
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