FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Does my child need therapy for feeding? 

If you dread mealtimes with your child, then yes!

If you worry about them not eating enough foods to be growing and learning, then yes!

Consider a block of Feeding Therapy. Our approach is family centred and aims to be manageable, not burden you with more mealtime stress. 

If your child has a feeding-tube I also support tube weaning in collaboration with your multidisciplinary team, including your medical team. 

Does my child need therapy for communication?

Early Intervention has the best outcomes so it's best to not 'wait and see'. Check your child's communication milestones at  https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/ 

If in doubt please contact me with any concerns. 

Do you help with establishing breastfeeding?

Yes! I can help based on Neuroprotective Developmental Care (NDC) approaches. 

As a speech pathologist I have have had experience with premature babies, babies with neurological conditions, heart conditions, syndromes and clefts. I am passionate about empowering mothers to explore breastfeeding in a non-judgmental and supportive way. 

Do you help with weaning from breastfeeding and bottle?

Yes! I can help based on Neuroprotective Developmental Care (NDC) approaches that are based on attachment promoting strategies. 

Do you help with bottle aversions?

Yes! Bottle aversion is a scary scenario which can quickly escalate, so do not delay seeking help. Early support is essential. I can help based on speech pathology dysphagia (swallowing disorders) knowledge, years of experience supporting parents, learning with and from parents, and in combination with Neuroprotective Developmental Care (NDC) approaches.

Do you help with sleep challenges?

Yes! If you feel stressed and overwhelmed about your child's sleep then seek support. 

If your baby has excessive night waking (wakes every 1-2 hours) then absolutely seek help. My support is based on Neuroprotective Developmental Care (NDC) approaches. 

If your infant has sleep challenges due to disability related issues (e.g., fatigues quickly due to Cerebral Palsy, has global developmental delays) I can support you to explore what are realistic expectations and provide strategies to support improved sleep. 

What is feeding therapy?

I deliver a unique approach to feeding therapy based on the Responsive Feeding Therapy approach. I start with a case history and observe functional feeding skills to determine if your child has motor skills that need support with development, and/or finds different sensations of texture, colour and shape overwhelming. Therapy has a family-centred approach and is provided by a telehealth service from the comfort of your home, where your child feels most at ease.  

Do you give second opinions on tongue-tie? 

Yes. I do a functional based assessment on tongue range of movement for feeding, drinking and speech development. I always offer a non-invasive therapy approach as a first port of call, based on best evidence-based practice. 

I have an NDIS package, can I access your service?

Yes. If you have a self-managed or plan-managed NDIS package then you can access our service. 

I don’t have an NDIS package, can I access your service?

Yes. You can discuss with your GP if your child is eligible for a Medicare rebate via an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) Program.  There will however still be out of pocket costs. Alternatively, if you have private health cover check if speech pathology services are covered.