FAQs
What is a speech pathologist?
Speech pathologists study, diagnose and treat communication disorders, including difficulties with:
- Speech sound production
- Language skills
- Play skills
- Social language
- Voice production
- Fluency (stuttering)
- Phonological awareness
- Literacy
- Developmental delays/disabilities
- Auditory processing
- Individuals living with a disability
- Life skills
Speech pathologists see clients who are experiencing difficulties with communication as a result of:
- Developmental delays
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Stroke
- Brain injuries
- Learning disabilities
- Intellectual disabilities
- Cerebral Palsy
- Dementia
- Hearing loss
- Other difficulties that can affect speech and language skills
For more information, please watch this video:
Is there any other funding available?
Private Health Insurance
Many private health funds provide cover for speech pathology services. Contact your provider to seek more information.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Star Communicators is a NDIS registered service provider.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on the service type (e.g. assessment or therapy), the setting that the session is to be conducted in (e.g. clinic, home or school), as well as the duration. Star Communicators offers 30 minute, 45 minute and 60 minute therapy sessions.
Please use our contact page to contact Julia for more information regarding costs of services at Star Communicators.
Do I need a referral to see a Speech Pathologist?
You do not need a referral to see a speech pathologist.
Can I claim Medicare Rebates?
You may be eligible for a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM) which enables you to claim rebates for 5 speech pathology sessions per calendar year. Seek advice from your GP or paediatrician to see if you or your child are eligible. If so, you will be given a written referral to speech pathology which should be brought to your initial consult.
What will the first session involve?
The first session involves a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s current skill level. Prior to this session, your speech pathologist will administer a brief interview with you over the phone to ask routine questions. This is so the speech pathologist can plan for the face-to-face session accordingly and select the most appropriate assessment tools.
You may also be asked to complete a client questionnaire prior to the visit, which should be brought along to the assessment.
How long will my child require speech therapy for?
The course of therapy differs depending on the individual’s needs and recommendations for intervention will be outlined in the report received following speech pathology assessment.
Speech pathology services may be accessed on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis depending on the intervention. Star Communicators also offer intensive speech therapy sessions as required.
Speech therapy sessions can be scheduled for 30 minutes, 45 minutes or 60 minutes.