How Do I Find a Speech Pathologist?

Some of the most common questions I get from friends is “how do I find a Speech Pathologist?” and “how do I know if I’ve found the right Speech Pathologist?”.

How do I find a Speech Pathologist?

There are so many ways from asking friends to searching google, but one of the best ways is to go to Speech Pathology Australia’s website www.speechpathologyaustralia.com.au, hover over “Resources For The Public” and from the dropdown menu, select “Find A Speech Pathologist”. On this page you can enter your postcode, your child’s age, what “area of practice” you need and whether you want them to be publicly or privately employed. A list will be generated which has their contact details and information about them such as whether they are mobile and what geographical area they work in. The great thing about this list is you know you’ll be getting a Speech Pathologist who is registered with the national professional body so you can rest assured knowing they are who they claim to be.

But how do I know if I’ve found the right Speech Pathologist?

Before you call, make a list of the things you want the Speech Pathologist to know, do or work with you. And don’t be afraid to ask because we want to know that you have found the right person for us too.

Some questions can be:

  1. Tell me about your experience with ……
  2. Are you able to see my child and I at our house/childcare/preschool?
  3. What do you charge?
  4. How often do I need to see you?
  5. How long is your waitlist?
  6. What times do you work and have available appointments?

Even if every question has been answered exactly as you hope, there is always the chance that you meet and for some reason, your child just does not gel with that person. It’s okay. Keep trying and if over time the relationship does not bloom, don’t be afraid to try someone new. I’ve experienced time and time again children who refused to cooperate with a previous Speech Pathologist but adore another. There is no way to control who your child likes and does not like.

If you’d like help discovering if I am the right Speech Pathologist for you, please contact us. We are more than happy to discuss whether we are suitable or try to help you find a suitable clinician for your needs.