What is a speech pathologist?

A speech pathologist or speech therapist is an allied health professional. They are trained to diagnose and treat communication disorders. This includes problems with:

• speaking or using your voice
• listening
• reading and writing
• social skills
• stuttering
• understanding language

They also help people with swallowing and feeding problems.

Speech pathologists need to have a degree in speech pathology. To work in Australia, most speech pathologists need to be a Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist (CPSP). That means speech pathologists need to be members or meet the requirement to be a member of Speech Pathology Australia (SPA).

You can check if a speech pathologist is a member of the SPA by searching the SPA website.

When do I see a speech pathologist?

Speech pathologists can help people who have difficulty communicating because of:

• cerebral palsy
• dementia
• hearing loss
• intellectual disability and developmental delays in children
• autism spectrum disorder
• stroke or other brain injury
• other problems that affect speech and language

Speech Pathologists can also help people who have difficulty swallowing and eating.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

What should I expect during an appointment with a speech pathologist?

In your first session with a speech pathologist, they will ask about your communication or swallowing problems. They may start with some simple tests to learn more about your condition.

Here's what to expect:

• They will ask questions about your difficulties and general health.
• They may perform tests or observe how you communicate or eat in familiar places such as home or school.
• They will give you exercises or strategies to help with your symptoms.
• Sessions can be one-on-one, in groups, or online.
• The number of sessions will depend on your progress.

The speech pathologist will explain everything clearly before starting.

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

What questions should I ask a speech pathologist?

Before making an appointment, it's helpful to ask a few questions to make sure the speech pathologist is suitable and can meet your needs. Here are some good questions to ask:

• What are your fees? Speech pathologists set their own fees and may charge different rates for different services.
• Do you have experience with my type of difficulty? Some specialise in certain areas or age groups. For example, some speech pathologists may be experienced in helping with children with learning disabilities or helping people with accents.
• What qualifications or extra training do you have? Find out if they have special training relevant to your needs.
• How often will I need therapy and for how long? Ask how many sessions you are likely to need and when therapy might end.

You might also want to ask how soon you will be able to see them.

How do I find a speech pathologist?

You can find a speech pathologist by using Speech Pathology Australia's 'Find a speech pathologist' service.

This is a list of Speech Pathology Australia members. It is not a complete list of all speech pathology services in Australia.

Where do speech pathologists work?

Speech pathologists work in many different settings. You might find a speech pathologist in a:

• hospital
• aged care facility
• school or early childhood education service
• private practice
• community health centre

Some speech pathologists will do home visits.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

Do I need a referral to see a speech pathologist?

You don't usually need a referral from your doctor to see a speech pathologist. However, if your doctor refers you, Medicare might cover some costs.

How much does it cost to see a speech pathologist?

The cost to see a speech pathologist can vary. It's best to ask about costs before you make an appointment.

• Public services are usually free, but there may be a small fee.
• Private services have different costs, as each speech pathologist sets their own rates.
• Private health insurance may cover some of your costs. Check with your health fund.
• Medicare may help with costs if your doctor refers you through a special program.
• People living with a disability may be eligible for help with the cost of a speech pathologist.

Resources and support

Speech pathology Australia provides information and assistance on various topics, including:

• fees, rebates and funded programs
• what speech pathologist do (fact sheet)
• a tool to help you find a speech pathologist

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers funding to eligible individuals living with disability.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?

NSW Government provides translated information in multiple languages about speech pathology services for people and carers.

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

Find an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) or Affiliate near you.