FREE INTRODUCTORY APPOINTMENT

Start With a Free 20-Minute Speech Pathology Meet & Greet

Finding the right Speech Pathologist is an important decision, whether you're arranging support for yourself, your child or someone you care for.

At Belong Health, we offer a Free 20-Minute Meet & Greet to help you get started.

There is no charge for the 20-minute Meet & Greet, and no obligation to proceed with assessment, therapy or any other service.

What can I discuss during the Meet & Greet?

This introductory conversation gives you an opportunity to:

Discuss your concerns Tell us about the communication difficulties, challenges or support needs that have prompted your enquiry.

Ask questions Learn more about Speech Pathology and the types of support that may be appropriate.

Explore your goals Discuss what matters most to you, your child or the person you're supporting.

Understand the process Find out what an initial assessment, therapy or ongoing support may involve.

Discuss practical arrangements Ask about appointment locations, funding options, fees and availability.

Get to know your Speech Pathologist Make an informed decision about whether the service feels like a suitable fit.

The Meet & Greet is an introductory discussion, rather than a formal clinical assessment or therapy appointment.

Appointments are arranged where a suitable Speech Pathologist is available.

Book Your Free 20-Minute Meet & Greet →

What Is Paediatric Speech Pathology?

Paediatric Speech Pathology focuses on assessing and supporting children's speech, language and communication development.

Speech and language are related but different.

Speech is how we produce sounds and words. Language involves understanding and using words, sentences and other forms of communication to share meaning.

Communication can also involve gestures, facial expressions, pictures, communication devices and other ways of expressing thoughts and needs.

A Paediatric Speech Pathologist may help children with:

• Producing speech sounds and speaking clearly
• Learning and using words and sentences
• Understanding questions, instructions and conversations
• Expressing needs, feelings, preferences and ideas
• Participating in conversations and social interactions
• Developing communication through play
• Language skills associated with literacy and learning
• Using alternative or additional communication methods where appropriate

Support is tailored to each child's communication profile, developmental stage and priorities.
The aim is to help children communicate in meaningful ways and participate in the activities and relationships that matter to them.

Speech Therapy for Toddlers, Children and Teenagers

Children's communication needs change as they grow. Belong Health considers these differences when planning Paediatric Speech Pathology support.

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Early Childhood Speech Therapy (0-6 Years)

​Early childhood is an important period for developing communication, language and interaction.

Some children begin using words and sentences later than expected. Others may communicate using gestures, sounds or alternative methods, or have difficulty understanding what people say.

Early childhood Speech Pathology may support:

• Early communication and interaction
• Late talking and language development
• Understanding familiar words and instructions
• Developing vocabulary and sentence use
• Speech sound development
• Communication during play
• Expressing wants, needs and choices
• Parent and caregiver communication strategies

For infants, toddlers and preschool-aged children, therapy may use play-based activities and everyday routines.

A Speech Pathologist may also work with parents and carers to identify opportunities for communication during activities such as reading, playing, getting dressed and sharing meals.

If you have concerns about your toddler's communication, you do not need to wait for a formal diagnosis before making a private Speech Pathology enquiry.

Explore Early Childhood Supports →

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Speech Therapy for School-Aged Children (7-12 Years)​

As children progress through primary school, communication demands become more complex.

Children may need to understand longer instructions, explain their thinking, learn new vocabulary, participate in discussions and communicate with peers and teachers.

Speech Pathology may help with:

• Speech clarity and pronunciation
• Understanding classroom language
• Following spoken instructions
• Expressing ideas in sentences and narratives
• Organising and retelling information
• Asking questions and requesting clarification
• Language skills associated with reading and writing
• Participating in conversations and group activities

Support may focus on practical communication needs at home, school and in the community.

Where appropriate and with consent, Speech Pathologists may collaborate with families and educators to support consistent communication strategies.

Explore School Readiness and Developmental Support →

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Speech Pathology for Teenagers (13-17 Years)

Teenagers face different communication expectations as they develop greater independence.

They may need to understand complex language, participate in discussions, explain their perspectives, advocate for themselves and communicate across school, family and community settings.

Speech Pathology may support teenagers with:

• Expressing and organising thoughts
• Understanding complex information
• Participating in conversations
• Communicating needs, preferences and boundaries
• Understanding and using language for learning
• Developing strategies for communication challenges
• Communicating during social and community activities
• Preparing for changing communication demands

​Therapy goals should reflect the teenager's own priorities, communication preferences and everyday experiences.

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Common Speech and Language Difficulties in Children

Speech Sound and Articulation Difficulties

Some children have difficulty producing particular speech sounds or being understood by others.

For example, a child may substitute one sound for another, leave sounds out of words or use speech patterns that make their message difficult to understand.

Speech Pathology can assess speech sound development and, where appropriate, provide targeted activities and strategies.

Learn About Articulation Difficulties →

Expressive Language Difficulties

Expressive language refers to how a child uses words, sentences and other communication methods to share information.
Children with expressive language difficulties may find it challenging to:

• Find the words they want to use
• Combine words into sentences
• Explain an experience
• Answer questions
• Tell stories or organise ideas
• Express more complex thoughts

Speech Pathology may support vocabulary, sentence development, storytelling and functional communication.

Learn About Expressive Language Difficulties →

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Receptive Language and Comprehension Difficulties

Receptive language is the ability to understand spoken or other forms of language.

A child with comprehension difficulties may need extra support understanding:

• Questions
• Instructions
• New vocabulary
• Longer explanations
• Classroom discussions
• Stories and conversations

Sometimes a child appears not to be listening when they are actually having difficulty understanding or processing the information being presented.

Speech Pathology can help identify language comprehension needs and develop practical strategies to make communication more accessible

Learn About Comprehension Difficulties →

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Social Communication Differences

Children communicate and interact in different ways.

Some may find particular communication situations challenging, such as entering conversations, explaining misunderstandings, asking for clarification or communicating their preferences in group settings.

Speech Pathology may support children to communicate more comfortably and effectively in situations that matter to them.

Our approach respects different communication styles and does not require children to mask their identity, force eye contact or adopt a single definition of appropriate social behaviour.

Support may also involve helping families, educators and peers understand and accommodate different communication needs.

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Speech Pathology for Learning and Literacy-Related Difficulties

Language plays an important role in learning.

Children may experience difficulties understanding classroom information, learning vocabulary, recognising speech sounds or organising language for reading and writing.

Speech Pathology may have a role in supporting:

• Phonological awareness, including recognising sounds within words
• Vocabulary development
• Understanding spoken and written language
• Verbal reasoning and explanations
• Narrative and storytelling skills
• Language skills associated with reading and spelling

Speech Pathology support for communication and literacy is different from a formal diagnostic assessment for a Specific Learning Disorder.

Where a diagnostic assessment is required, Belong Health offers a separate Psychology assessment pathway.

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Stuttering and Fluency Difficulties

Some children experience repetitions, prolonged sounds or interruptions in the flow of their speech.

Stuttering can vary between children and situations.

Families can contact Belong Health to discuss concerns about stuttering or fluency. We will confirm whether a Speech Pathologist with the appropriate experience is available.

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Additional Communication and Feeding Enquiries

Some children require additional or alternative ways to communicate, including pictures, gestures or communication devices.

Families may also enquire about feeding, swallowing or mealtime difficulties.

These needs can require specialised assessment and experience. Our team will confirm whether an appropriately experienced Speech Pathologist is available and whether the requested service is suitable.

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How Do I Know If My Child Needs Speech Therapy?

Children develop at different rates, and not every communication difference requires therapy.

However, a Speech Pathology assessment may be worth considering if your child:

• Is using fewer words or sentences than expected for their developmental stage
• Is frequently difficult for familiar or unfamiliar people to understand
• Has difficulty understanding spoken instructions or questions
• Struggles to communicate their needs, thoughts or preferences
• Finds it difficult to explain experiences or organise information
• Experiences communication-related difficulties at childcare, kindy or school
• Has language difficulties that affect learning or participation
• Experiences stuttering or another speech-related concern
• Uses alternative communication methods and may benefit from additional support

A child's communication strengths, needs and development should be considered individually.

You do not need to know whether your child has a speech delay, language disorder or another diagnosed condition before asking for guidance.

Where there are concerns about hearing, changes in previously acquired skills or other health-related difficulties, a GP or appropriate health professional may also be involved.

If you're uncertain, our Free 20-Minute Meet & Greet can help you explore whether a formal Speech Pathology assessment may be appropriate.

Is Speech Pathology Right for You? →

Make an Enquiry →

Paediatric Speech Pathology Assessments

A Paediatric Speech Pathology assessment helps identify a child's communication strengths, difficulties and functional support needs.

The assessment is tailored to the child's age, developmental stage, communication style and the reason for referral.

Depending on the child's needs, it may include:

• Discussing developmental and communication history
• Understanding parent, carer and child concerns
• Observing communication during activities or play
• Assessing speech sound production
• Exploring expressive and receptive language
• Considering social and functional communication
• Reviewing communication needs at home or school
• Using age-appropriate assessment tools where suitable

A Speech Pathologist may also seek relevant information from educators or other professionals, with appropriate consent.

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What Happens After the Assessment?

The Speech Pathologist will discuss the findings and any recommendations with the family.

Depending on the results, recommendations may include:

• Individual Speech Pathology therapy
• Parent or caregiver communication strategies
• Home activities and practice opportunities
• Collaboration with educators or other supports
• Further assessment or referral where appropriate
• Monitoring communication development

A formal report may be prepared where clinically appropriate and included in the agreed service.
An assessment does not automatically mean your child requires ongoing therapy.

Learn More About Speech Pathology Assessments & Reports →

What Happens During Children's Speech Therapy?

Paediatric Speech Pathology is individualised.

Sessions may involve structured activities, games, play, conversation, language tasks or practical strategies based on the child's needs.

For a younger child, therapy may use play, toys, books and everyday communication activities.

For older children and teenagers, sessions may focus on specific communication goals involving language, speech clarity, understanding information or participation in conversations.

Speech Pathologists may also provide:

• Guidance for parents and carers
• Practical communication strategies for home
• Activities that support agreed therapy goals
• Recommendations for educators where appropriate
• Review of progress and changing support needs

​The Speech Pathologist and family can discuss how strategies might fit into the child's everyday routines without creating unnecessary pressure.

The type, frequency and duration of therapy depend on the child's assessment findings, goals and individual circumstances.

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Supporting Autistic Children and Children With ADHD

Belong Health welcomes Speech Pathology enquiries for autistic children and children with ADHD who have communication-related support needs.

Some children may benefit from support understanding language, expressing themselves, organising information or communicating in different environments.

For autistic children, therapy should respect individual communication styles, sensory needs and preferences.

For children with ADHD, Speech Pathology may be relevant when attention, language processing or organisation affects communication.
Speech Pathology is not a treatment for autism or ADHD itself.

Our focus is on supporting communication, choice, self-advocacy and meaningful participation, rather than expecting children to communicate in one particular way.

Children do not need to have a formal autism or ADHD diagnosis to enquire about privately funded Speech Pathology.

Where a diagnostic assessment is needed, Belong Health's Psychology assessment service is a separate pathway.

Explore Autism Support for Children →

Where Is Paediatric Speech Pathology Available?

Belong Health provides Paediatric Speech Pathology through suitable clinic, home, school, community and telehealth appointments.

Falcon Clinic - Mandurah and Peel

Our clinic is located at 13 Littleton Street, Falcon WA 6210.
Clinic appointments may be available depending on the child's age, needs and clinician availability.

Home, School and Community Visits

Paediatric Speech Pathology may be provided in homes, schools and community settings within the relevant clinician's service area.
These appointments can help support communication in familiar environments and everyday routines.

Service coverage varies between clinicians. Families in the wider Peel, Rockingham and Perth regions are welcome to enquire so we can confirm the options for their location.
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Telehealth Across Western Australia

Telehealth Speech Pathology may be suitable for some children and families, including those living outside the local service area.
Online appointments may involve communication activities, parent guidance or other clinically appropriate support.

Suitability depends on the child's needs, the service required and whether telehealth can provide an appropriate assessment or therapy setting.

Learn More About Telehealth Speech Pathology →

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Speech and Language Home Therapy Packs

Belong Health also offers customised Speech and Language Home Therapy Packs for children aged 0-12 years.

These packs contain activities and guidance developed around selected communication goals, such as speech sounds, vocabulary, comprehension and expressive language.

They may provide families with additional activities to use at home, including during school holidays or between therapy appointments.

Home Therapy Packs are not suitable for every communication need and are not a substitute for an appropriate clinical assessment or individual therapy where required.

Speech and Language Home Therapy Packs are privately purchased and are not NDIS claimable.

Explore Speech and Language Home Therapy Packs →

Paediatric Speech Pathology Fees and Funding

Belong Health welcomes privately funded children and eligible NDIS participants.
Our standard Speech Pathology hourly rate is:
$193.99 per hour for NDIS and private clients.
Additional costs may apply for assessments, reports and eligible provider travel, depending on the service arrangements.
Our team can explain the relevant fees before services commence.

NDIS Paediatric Speech Pathology
Belong Health is an NDIS-registered provider and welcomes enquiries from self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed participants.
For eligible participants, Speech Pathology may be funded where it addresses disability-related communication or other eligible functional support needs and meets the relevant NDIS funding requirements.
Assessment, therapy, reporting and communication supports are considered according to the participant's circumstances and applicable funding rules.
NDIS funding is not automatic, and funding decisions are made by the NDIA.

Private Speech Pathology
Families can arrange privately funded Speech Pathology without a GP referral.
Private health insurance may provide rebates for eligible appointments, depending on the health fund and policy.

Medicare Speech Pathology
Some children may be eligible for Medicare rebates for Speech Pathology under a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan or an eligible existing care-plan arrangement.
Medicare eligibility, referral requirements and rebate rules apply. A Medicare rebate may cover only part of the appointment cost.
Your GP can advise whether an applicable referral pathway is appropriate.

Early Childhood and Developmental Support Pathways
Families seeking support for younger children may also want information about early childhood services and changing foundational support arrangements in Western Australia.
The appropriate pathway will depend on the child's needs, eligibility and the services available.

Explore Early Childhood Supports in WA →

Learn About Thriving Kids WA →

View Belong Health Fees and Brochure →

How to Get Started With Paediatric Speech Pathology

Step 1: Request a Free 20-Minute Meet & Greet

Contact Belong Health and tell us about your child's age, location and communication needs.
Where a suitable Speech Pathologist is available, we can arrange a free introductory Meet & Greet.
You can ask questions, explain your concerns and discuss the options without committing to assessment or therapy.

Step 2: Discuss Assessment and Therapy Options

If you decide to proceed, our team will discuss the appropriate next steps.
This may involve an initial consultation or formal Speech Pathology assessment.
We'll explain the relevant fees, appointment arrangements and paperwork before services commence.

Step 3: Develop an Individualised Support Plan

Where therapy is recommended and a suitable clinician is available, support can be planned around your child's communication goals, strengths and needs.
The Speech Pathologist may also discuss practical ways for parents, carers and educators to support communication in everyday situations.

Book Your Free 20-Minute Paediatric Speech Pathology Meet & Greet

Wondering whether Speech Pathology could help your child?

At Belong Health, you can start with a Free 20-Minute Meet & Greet with a suitable Speech Pathologist.
Ask questions, discuss your concerns and explore the available options before deciding what to do next.

There is no charge for the 20-minute Meet & Greet, and no obligation to proceed with assessment, therapy or any other service.
Appointments are subject to suitable clinician availability.

Enquire About Support → Call Our Team → View Fees & Brochure →

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Frequently Asked Questions - Children's Speech Pathology

What Does a Paediatric Speech Pathologist Do?
​A Paediatric Speech Pathologist assesses and supports children's speech, language and communication development.
Support may involve speech clarity, understanding language, expressing ideas, early communication, literacy-related language skills and everyday communication.
The appropriate service depends on the child's age, individual needs and clinician's scope.

At What Age Can a Child Start Speech Therapy?
Children can access Speech Pathology support at different ages, including during infancy and toddlerhood where appropriate.
If you're concerned about your child's communication development, you can seek guidance without waiting for them to reach a particular age.

My 2 or 3-Year-Old Isn't Talking Much. Should I Be Concerned?
Children develop language at different rates. However, limited spoken language, difficulties understanding communication or concerns about interaction may be reasons to seek advice.
A Speech Pathologist can assess your child's communication and discuss whether support, monitoring or another referral may be appropriate.

Is It Too Late to Start Speech Therapy at Age 4, 5 or Older?
No. Children can benefit from Speech Pathology assessment and support throughout childhood and adolescence.
The goals and approach will depend on their age, communication needs and priorities.

Does Belong Health Offer a Free Paediatric Speech Pathology Meet & Greet?
Yes. Belong Health offers a Free 20-Minute Speech Pathology Meet & Greet where a suitable clinician is available.
It is an introductory discussion rather than a clinical assessment or therapy appointment.
There is no charge and no obligation to proceed with assessment, therapy or any other service.

Does My Child Need a Diagnosis to See a Speech Pathologist?
A diagnosis is not required to arrange privately funded Speech Pathology.
Families may seek support for concerns about speech clarity, language development, comprehension or communication even when there is no diagnosed condition.
NDIS funding and other funding arrangements have separate eligibility requirements.

Can Speech Pathology Help Autistic Children?
Speech Pathology may support autistic children with communication needs, including expressing preferences, understanding information, using AAC and participating in meaningful interactions.
Support should respect the child's communication style, strengths and individual goals rather than requiring masking or conformity to a particular social style.

Can Speech Therapy Help My Child With Reading and Writing?
Speech Pathology may support language and literacy-related skills, such as phonological awareness, vocabulary, comprehension and organising ideas.
The appropriate support depends on assessment findings. A diagnostic assessment for a Specific Learning Disorder is a separate service pathway.

Can Speech Therapy Be Provided at My Child's School or Home?
Home, school and community appointments may be available within the relevant clinician's service area and where suitable for the child's needs.
Appointment availability depends on location, age group, clinical suitability and clinician availability. Provider travel charges may apply.

Can My Child Access Speech Pathology Through Telehealth?
Telehealth Speech Pathology may be available across Western Australia where clinically appropriate.
Suitability depends on the child's communication needs, the assessment or therapy required and whether online appointments provide an appropriate setting.

How Much Does Children's Speech Therapy Cost?
Belong Health's standard Paediatric Speech Pathology rate is $193.99 per hour for NDIS and private clients.
Additional costs may apply for assessments, reporting or eligible travel according to the service arrangements.
The initial 20-minute Meet & Greet is free.

Is Paediatric Speech Pathology Covered by the NDIS?
Paediatric Speech Pathology may be funded for eligible NDIS participants when it meets the relevant disability-related support needs and funding criteria.
Funding decisions are made by the NDIA, and not every assessment or therapy service is automatically funded.

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Related Resources
Speech Pathology Resources for Families →
Early Intervention for Speech and Language Development →
School Readiness Support →
Speech and Language Home Therapy Packs →
Is Speech Pathology Right for Your Child? →
Explore All Belong Health Speech Pathology Services →

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Last Edited: October 2026