How Speech Pathology Can Help Adults

​Speech pathology for adults may support:

• Communication (speaking, understanding, social interaction)
• Swallowing and mealtime safety
• Cognitive skills (memory, attention, problem-solving)
• Voice and fluency
• Assistive communication (AAC)

Support is always tailored to the individual, their goals, and their environment.

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Our Adult Speech Therapy Services

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Communication & Language Support
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• Expressive language (getting words out)
• Comprehension (understanding language)
• Social communication
• Speech clarity and articulation​

Communication Difficulties

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Cognitive-Communication Support

Supporting individuals experiencing:

• Stroke
• Brain injury
• Dementia
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Motor Neuron Disease

Focus areas include:

• Memory and attention
• Processing information
• Functional communication in daily life​
  

Cognitive Difficulties

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Swallowing & Mealtime Support (Dysphagia)

​Support for individuals experiencing:

• Difficulty swallowing food or fluids
• Coughing or choking during meals
• Changes in eating or drinking

Services may include:

• Swallowing assessments
• Mealtime management plans
• Recommendations for safe eating and drinking

Dysphagia

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Voice & Fluency Support
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• Voice changes (e.g. hoarseness, fatigue)
• Parkinson’s-related voice changes
• Stuttering and fluency

Voice & Fluency Therapy

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AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication)

Support for individuals who benefit from alternative ways to communicate, including:

• AAC devices
• Communication apps
• Low-tech communication supports

Includes:

• Assessment
• Device trials
• Training for individuals and support networks

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Speech assessments include:
​Assistive Technology & Communication Equipment Reports
​Risk Assessments for swallowing or communication safety

AAC Devices & Communication Support

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Neurodevelopmental & Lifelong Conditions

​Support for adults with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• ADHD / attention and concentration differences
• Dyspraxia / motor planning differences
• Learning differences (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)

Focus is on:

• Functional communication
• Daily participation
• Independence

Neurodevelopmental & Lifelong Communication Support

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Mental Health & Communication

Speech Pathologists may also support individuals experiencing:

• Anxiety impacting communication
• Social communication challenges
• Reduced confidence in speaking

We work alongside psychologists and counsellors to provide holistic support.

Communication & Confidence Support

Assessments & Reports
We provide:

• Communication assessments
• Cognitive-communication assessments
• Swallowing assessments
• Functional reports
• Mealtime management plans
• Assistive technology recommendations

Speech Pathology Assessments & Reports

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Where We Provide Services
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We offer adult speech pathology services across:

• Mandurah & Peel Region
• Baldivis and surrounding areas
• Perth Metro
• South Perth

Including:

• In-Clinic visits (Peel Region)
• In-home visits
• Community-based sessions
• Telehealth across WA

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When to Seek Support

​You may consider speech pathology if you or someone you support is experiencing:

• Difficulty communicating or being understood
• Changes in memory, thinking, or processing
• Swallowing or eating difficulties
• Voice changes
• Reduced confidence in social situations

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Get Started with Speech Pathology

If you’re looking for adult speech therapy in Perth, Mandurah, or across Western Australia, our team is here to help.
Call us on 08 9586 3634 or send us an email here

Supporting Communication, Connection, & Independence

free 20min Speech Session
with our Senior Speech Pathologist for ages 18-65+

Connect with Belong Health to experience personalised therapy services in the Peel Region & Perth Metro.
Our Free Connect Speech session with a Senior Speech Pathologist is designed to address your unique needs and empower you or your family.
​Secure your spot today and discover how our team can help you thrive.

Areas we provide Speech Intervention

Articulation difficulties

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Cognitive difficulties

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Cognitive impairment/neuro: Stroke, Parkinson's, Dementia, Motor Neuron, Multiple Sclerosis

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Co-Morbidities related to older adult/geriatric

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​Communication difficulties

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Comprehension difficulties​

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Expressive language difficulties​

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Dysgraphia

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Feeding referrals including ASD clients

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Later adulthood and seniors for voice, fluency, acquired neuro, acute neruo, GI swallow, dysphagia and feeding. 

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Learning difficulties

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Mealtime management plans​

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Stuttering and Fluency Difficulties

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Speech Difficulties

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Swallowing difficulties and feeding

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Social communication​

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Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3634 or send us a message

Have a question? or need more information

Enquire Now

Call us

Download Our Brochure

Explore More Resources
For tools, guides, and tips to support communication, safety, and independence, visit our  Resource Hub for adults and seniors living with disability, neurological conditions, or age-related changes.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can you help after a stroke or with Parkinson’s disease?
Yes. Our Senior Speech Pathologist supports stroke recovery and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, MS, and MND.

Do you support people with dementia or memory decline?
Absolutely. We help clients and their families manage communication and swallowing changes related to dementia and ageing.

Do you provide Telehealth for seniors?
Yes. We offer easy-to-use online sessions, and we can support you or a carer to get set up.

What if I live in residential care?
We provide speech services in supported accommodation, group homes, and aged care settings across WA.

Do you provide reports for NDIS or aged care?
Yes, we complete assessments and provide professional reports to support your funding, care planning, and goals.

Can speech therapy help with memory or thinking problems?
Yes. Our Speech Pathologists can support cognitive-communication challenges related to memory, attention, and problem-solving, particularly after stroke or in conditions like dementia or Parkinson’s disease.

Do you provide swallowing assessments and therapy?
We provide swallowing risk assessments and support strategies, especially for clients with age-related changes, neurological conditions, or complex care needs. We can also collaborate with your GP, dietitian, or OT.

What does a Risk Assessment involve?
A Risk Assessment examines potential communication or swallowing-related risks that may affect your safety, independence, or quality of life. This includes capacity for communication, choking risk, mealtime support needs, and cognitive-communication risks in decision-making.

Can I access therapy if I live in a group home or aged care facility?
Yes. We work with residents, families, and staff in supported accommodation and aged care settings to deliver tailored, functional speech services that suit your environment and daily life.

How does Assistive Technology help with communication?
We assess and recommend communication aids and devices such as speech-generating apps, low-tech AAC boards, or adaptive equipment to help you communicate more effectively. These supports may be funded through NDIS or Aged Care packages.

Can speech therapy help with emotional or behavioural changes?
Yes. For some people, difficulty expressing themselves can lead to frustration, anxiety, or behavioural responses. We provide therapy to support emotional regulation and help reduce communication-related stress.

Is therapy still helpful even if my condition is progressive (like dementia or MND)?
Yes. Even with progressive conditions, therapy can support quality of life, maximise independence, and prepare you and your carers for future changes in communication or swallowing.

Do you work with carers and support workers?
Absolutely. We provide education, strategies, and support to carers, family members, and support staff to help them understand and support your communication needs.

Is Speech pathology Right for You? | Find Out with Belong Health

Do I need speech therapy?
Determining whether you need speech therapy can be a complex decision. Signs you might benefit from speech therapy include difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, trouble understanding or using language appropriately for your age, or experiencing communication challenges that interfere with daily life. Consulting with a speech pathologist can help clarify whether therapy is necessary by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your speech and language skills.
 
What are the signs I might need speech pathology?
Recognizing the signs that indicate a need for speech pathology can be crucial for timely intervention. Some common indicators include persistent difficulty with speech sounds, language development significantly behind peers, struggles with understanding or following instructions, or persistent stuttering or voice problems. Seeking guidance from a qualified speech pathologist can provide insight into these signs and determine appropriate steps for evaluation and treatment.
 
When to see a speech pathologist?
Determining when to seek the expertise of a speech pathologist depends on various factors. If you or your child experiences persistent speech or language difficulties that impact communication, social interactions, academic performance, or quality of life, it may be time to consider seeking professional help. Early intervention is especially beneficial for children, as it can address issues before they escalate and significantly impact development.
 
Is my child's speech development normal?
Assessing your child's speech development can help address concerns early on. Signs that your child may benefit from speech therapy include delayed milestones in speech sound production, limited vocabulary or difficulty forming sentences, challenges with understanding or following directions, or difficulty engaging in social interactions. Consulting with a paediatric speech pathologist can provide insight into your child's unique needs and appropriate intervention strategies.
 
How do I know if I have a speech disorder?
Identifying a speech disorder involves recognizing patterns of speech difficulties that persist over time and interfere with communication. Symptoms may include difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, frequent disruptions in fluency (stuttering), challenges with voice quality, or difficulty understanding or using language appropriately for one's age. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, consulting with a speech pathologist can help determine the presence and nature of a speech disorder.
 
What are the symptoms of a language disorder?
Understanding the symptoms of a language disorder can aid in recognising potential challenges. Common signs include difficulty understanding spoken or written language, challenges expressing thoughts or ideas clearly, limited vocabulary, or trouble following directions. If you or someone you know experiences persistent difficulties in these areas, seeking an evaluation from a speech pathologist can provide insight into the presence and nature of a language disorder.
 
Speech difficulties in adults?
Adults experiencing speech difficulties may wonder about the underlying causes and potential solutions. Speech challenges in adulthood can stem from various factors, including neurological conditions, vocal cord disorders, or past trauma. Seeking evaluation and treatment from a speech pathologist can help identify the root cause of speech difficulties and develop personalized strategies to improve communication skills and confidence.
 
Difference between speech delay and speech disorder?
Distinguishing between speech delay and speech disorder can help clarify the nature of communication challenges. Speech delay typically refers to a temporary lag in achieving speech milestones, while a speech disorder involves persistent difficulties with speech production, fluency, or voice quality. Consulting with a speech pathologist can provide clarity by assessing speech and language abilities and determining appropriate intervention, whether it's for delayed development or a disorder.
 
What does it mean if I have trouble pronouncing certain sounds?
Having trouble pronouncing certain sounds can indicate a variety of factors, ranging from a temporary phase in speech development to a more persistent speech disorder.
If difficulty pronouncing certain sounds persists beyond the expected age, if it affects communication, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as frustration or avoidance of speaking, it may be worth seeking an evaluation by a speech-language pathologist (SLP). An SLP can assess the nature and severity of the speech difficulty and provide appropriate intervention to address it. Early intervention is often key in helping individuals overcome speech challenges and develop clear and effective communication skills.
 
Can speech therapy help me?
Determining if speech therapy is right for you involves understanding how it can address specific communication challenges. Speech therapy focuses on improving speech production, language comprehension and expression, fluency, and voice quality. Through personalized therapy plans and evidence-based techniques, speech pathologists work to enhance communication skills and confidence. Consulting with a speech pathologist can help you explore whether therapy aligns with your goals and needs.
 
Speech therapy vs. accent reduction
Differentiating between speech therapy and accent reduction can help individuals understand their options for improving communication skills. Speech therapy encompasses a broad range of interventions aimed at addressing speech and language challenges, while accent reduction specifically targets modifying pronunciation patterns to achieve clearer speech. Consulting with a speech pathologist can help determine which approach is most appropriate based on individual needs and goals.
 
Is stuttering normal?
Navigating stuttering can be challenging, but understanding its nature and potential treatments can offer hope. Stuttering is a fluency disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech, such as repetitions, prolongations, or blocks. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, speech therapy can help individuals manage stuttering and improve communication fluency and confidence. Consulting with a speech pathologist experienced in treating stuttering can provide personalized strategies and support.
 
When is speech therapy necessary?
Deciding when speech therapy is necessary involves considering the impact of communication challenges on daily life. Speech therapy may be recommended for individuals experiencing persistent difficulties with speech sound production, language development, fluency, or voice quality. Consulting with a speech pathologist can help assess whether therapy is appropriate by evaluating speech and language skills and determining potential benefits of intervention.
 
Speech problems in children - when to worry?
Recognising speech problems in children can prompt early intervention and support. Common indicators include difficulty producing speech sounds, delays in language development, challenges with understanding or following instructions, or struggles with social communication. Seeking evaluation and treatment from a paediatric speech pathologist can provide insight into your child's unique needs and empower them to overcome communication challenges.
 
What are the common speech disorders?
Understanding common speech disorders can aid in recognizing potential challenges and seeking appropriate support. Articulation disorders involve difficulties with producing speech sounds accurately, while fluency disorders, such as stuttering, disrupt the smooth flow of speech. Voice disorders affect the quality, pitch, or volume of the voice. Consulting with a speech pathologist can help identify the specific nature of a speech disorder and develop personalized treatment strategies.
 
What is speech therapy?
Speech therapy, also known as speech-language therapy, is a specialized form of therapy aimed at assessing, diagnosing, and treating communication and speech disorders. It is typically conducted by licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) who are trained to work with individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly.
Speech therapy addresses a wide range of issues related to speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders.
Speech therapy sessions are tailored to the individual needs of the client and may involve a variety of techniques and activities.
Overall, speech therapy aims to improve communication abilities, enhance quality of life, and support individuals in reaching their full potential in academic, social, and professional settings.
 
What kinds of problems can speech therapy treat?
Speech therapy can be used to treat speech disorders, language disorders, swallowing problems, communication disorders, aural rehabilitation and voice disorders.
 
What treatments are used in speech therapy?
There are various speech therapy techniques used for each speech and language disorder.  These evidence-based techniques depend on the particular disorder and your SLP is qualified and experienced to work
 
How long are each speech therapy sessions?
Each speech therapy session can last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on various factors.  Your SLP will decide on the best-suited duration for each child.
 
Do I need to continue working on the goals provided by my SLP at home?
For the treatment to help over the long term, it’s often important to also regularly practice the techniques at home.
 
Do children grow out of their speech issues?
Sometimes, in the case of tongue thrust, for example, most children will do so before they begin teething.  However, early intervention in speech issues is critical to help your child.
If your child is showing signs of a speech disorder or learning disability, it’s a good idea to enroll them in speech-language therapy as soon as possible.
It is better to get assessed by a Speech Pathologist and not need it than to live with an untreated speech or language disorder.
 
Why is speech therapy for children important?
Speech issues in children can have wide-ranging consequences. Beyond having a bit of a lisp or pronouncing words unusually, a speech issue can cause issues with their self-esteem. It can also signify deeper issues, like a learning disability or problems with their hearing.
Because they aren’t able to communicate as well as their peers, a speech issue in a child can cause them to have trouble making friends. This can stunt their growth socially.
Children with learning disabilities face greater challenges in life as well. Also, children with untreated learning disabilities are more likely to be unemployed when they grow up.
However, there is hope. Speech-language therapy can help your child manage their learning disability or speech issues.
Contact us about speech-language therapy and we can help.
 
How do I know if my child's speech delay is just a phase or something more serious?
Determining whether your child's speech delay is just a phase or something more serious can be a challenging task, but some indicators may suggest further evaluation or intervention is needed.

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​Referrals to Belong Health
We are Medicare and Private Health fund registered for Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.

EPC/Team care arrangements/Chronic disease (CDM) or GP management plans and self-referrals are all acceptable.

WA NDIS Registered Provider  

Accessing our services

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Medicare
You can get a referral from your/your child’s GP for OT on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan this gives you 5 sessions for OT per calendar year with a $53 rebate available on each session or a Helping Children with Autism/PDD/ or an eligible disability package (20 sessions between allied health professionals, as set up by a Paediatrician/Psychiatrist) which gives your child under 16 years a $75 rebate per session for the 20 sessions, you can use up to 10 sessions per Health Professional (up to 10 for OT) and you will need a separate referral letter from your child’s Paediatrician for each Allied Health Professional you are seeking services from. 

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Private Health
Your Private Health fund may cover up to 75% of the cost of OT sessions if this is included in your cover, be sure to call them or check your policy for details.

No referral or self referral
You do not require a referral for accessing OT

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NDIS Registered Provider
We are an NDIS Registered Provider
Whether you or your child have NDIS funding that is NDIS Managed, Third Party Plan Managed or you are Self-Managing your funds, you are able to use your funding to cover the full cost of therapy services plus travel costs. You will need provide us with your/your child’s NDIS number and plan details ahead of your first session. Once you have booked a session or contacted us, our team will be in touch to discuss our service agreement and provide you with our services price list. 

Let's Work Together

OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

EMAIL US

Belong Health's services for Peel to Rockingham region

Belong Health's Community Services for Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology, Occupational & Speech Therapy Assistants, & Counselling.
Travel approx Falcon + 50kms. If you do not live in these suburbs we may still be able to still assist you and your family. To find out more email us [email protected] or phone us on 08 9586 3934

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