Frequently Asked Questions

 1. What is telehealth speech pathology?
Telehealth speech pathology delivers assessment and therapy via secure video conferencing, allowing you to access professional support from your home.

2. Is telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes. For many adult communication goals, telehealth is highly effective. Therapy is evidence-based and tailored to your needs. If telehealth is not clinically appropriate, alternative options will be discussed.

3. Who can access your service?

We welcome clients who are self-funded or using private health insurance, have a plan through Medicare, or are referred by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).  

SVSP welcomes self-managed NDIS participants. Referrals for plan-managed NDIS participants may be accepted depending on individual circumstances, clinical suitability, and current service capacity. Please contact our clinic to discuss your needs further.   We regret to advise that this practice is not currently accepting referrals funded through Aged Care programs.  

4. What conditions do you treat?

We can support communication recovery in adults with:

• Speech disorders
• Language difficulties
• Voice disorders
• Cognitive-communication difficulties (e.g., following stroke, brain injury, or neurological conditions)

We do not provide dysphagia (swallowing) assessment or management via telehealth.

5. What do I need for a telehealth session?

You will need:

• A stable internet connection
• A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone
• A quiet, private space

A secure session link will be provided prior to your appointment.

6. How long are sessions?
Session length can range between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on your individual needs and goals.

7. Do I need a referral?
A referral is not required to book an appointment. However, a referral may be necessary if you intend to claim through DVA, Medicare, or other rebate schemes.

8. How do I book an appointment?
Want to get started? Click “Email us today!” at the bottom of this page and we will send you a short client enquiry form to gather the details we need.

9. What are your fees?
Our fees are competitive with similar speech pathology services in Australia. Because every client’s needs and goals are unique, we provide individualised fee quotes based on your specific requirements. Please contact us to discuss your circumstances, and we can guide you on session costs and any potential rebates or funding options that may apply. 

10. What is your cancellation policy?
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee.

11. How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your goals and progress. A recommended therapy plan will be discussed following your assessment.

12. What happens in the first session?
The initial session includes assessment, discussion of your goals, and development of an individualised therapy plan.

13. What is the LSVT LOUD® program?
LSVT LOUD® is an evidence-based speech treatment designed to improve vocal loudness and clarity, particularly for people with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. It is an intensive program focused on increasing vocal strength and functional communication.

For more information, visit LSVT Global: https://www.lsvtglobal.com

14. What is the SPEAK OUT!® therapy program?
SPEAK OUT!® is a Parkinson’s-specific speech therapy program that focuses on speaking with intent to improve vocal strength, clarity, and confidence. The program combines individual therapy and structured home practice.

For more information, visit Parkinson Voice Project: https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org

15. How are referrals prioritised and do you keep a waitlist?
Referrals are reviewed and prioritised according to clinical need, and services are offered on a needs-first basis. Where possible, we do our best to accommodate new referrals; however, availability may vary depending on demand and clinical priority.

If we are unable to provide an appointment within a reasonable timeframe, we will notify you and suggest alternative services to ensure you can access appropriate support. Another option for finding a service with immediate availability is to search the Speech Pathology Australia website using the “Find a Speech Pathologist” directory.