Speech pathologists study, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders, including but not limited to difficulties with speaking, listening, understanding language, reading, writing, social skills, stuttering and using voice.

Speech pathologists work with people who have:

• Difficulty communicating because of developmental delays such as Autism or ADHD
• Acquired brain injuries such as stroke or head trauma
• Learning disability
• Intellectual disability
• Cerebral palsy
• Dementia
• Hearing loss
• Gender & voice dysphoria.

People who experience difficulties with safely swallowing food, drink and medication can also be helped by a speech pathologist.

Treatment programs begin with an initial consultation. We conduct a thorough assessment of you or your loved one’s presenting condition, and establish goals for further sessions where necessary. In each follow up session we will generally introduce you to a number of new strategies and exercises, to be carried over into home practice.

Strategies provided within sessions are as varied as the presenting conditions, and are tailored to provide you with optimal outcomes. The sessions are generally kept short to allow for optimal engagement and learning, and to reduce the occurrence of muscular and vocal fatigue.

For more information please see Vanessa’s website: https://vmspeechpathology.com.au/