Celebrating Speech Pathology Week: Communicate Your Way

Did you know that an estimated 1.2 million Australians have communication support needs? This Speech Pathology Week, we’re proud to spotlight the life-changing work of speech pathologists, who help people of all ages overcome communication challenges and build meaningful connections with the world around them. 

At St Jude’s, our passionate multidisciplinary Allied Health team is dedicated to empowering individuals to find their voices, gain confidence, and achieve their personal goals. Whether it’s assisting with communication skills, swallowing difficulties, stroke recovery, language development, or enhancing social interactions, our Speech Pathologists make a lasting difference in the lives of those we support. 

What Do Speech Pathologists Do?

From enhancing speech and language abilities to supporting those with speech difficulties, Speech Pathologists make an invaluable contribution to everyday life. Their work helps individuals improve their quality of life by addressing communication barriers, allowing them to express themselves and connect with others in ways they may not have thought possible. 

In addition to communication challenges, Speech Pathologists play a vital role in helping individuals with swallowing difficulties. These issues, known as dysphagia, can impact a person’s ability to eat and drink safely, posing serious health risks. Speech Pathologists assess and develop personalised treatment plans to improve swallowing function, making mealtimes safer and more enjoyable. For stroke survivors, they also provide critical support in regaining speech, language, and cognitive communication skills, helping them rebuild their independence and maintain autonomy in communication.

To gain deeper insights into the work of our Speech Pathologists, we spoke with Chloe, one of our dedicated therapists who works across all age groups – from young children to senior residents in our aged care homes. 

Interview with Chloe, Speech Pathologist at St Jude’s

What does this year’s theme, “Communicate Your Way,” mean to you?

This year’s theme ‘communicate your way’ to me means to be autonomous in what I want to say, to be seen, heard, to understand what’s happening around me, and to be known by others as well. It’s about embracing and respecting the diverse ways people choose to communicate. 

What are some examples of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?

When it comes to communication, there are many different ways that we go about it, and there are both aided and unaided methods. For example, unaided communication could include sign language or AUSLAN keyword signing. 

Aided communication involves tools or devices. These can range from low-tech options like communication books and boards to mid-tech solutions like BigMack talking buttons. High-tech methods often involve speech-generating devices, which might be dedicated devices or apps on a tablet or smartphone. 

What is your favourite communication strategy when working with clients?

My favourite strategy is to take the time to listen, to truly understand and to validate the unique way that each person chooses to communicate. Even if I primarily communicate through talking, others may choose different methods and that is perfectly fine. 

Join Us in Celebrating Speech Pathology Week

During Speech Pathology Week, we celebrate not only the dedication of our Speech Pathologists but also the incredible progress made by the children, adults, and families we support. Each milestone reached reflects the hard work, perseverance, and collaboration between our therapists and clients, highlighting the powerful impact of working together toward communication goals. 

As we mark this important week, we invite you to explore how Speech Pathology services at St Jude’s can make a difference in your life or that of a loved one. Whether you’re facing challenges with speech clarity, language comprehension, social interaction, or even mealtime difficulties, our team is here to provide expert guidance and compassionate care, every step of the way. 

For more information about our Speech Pathology services or to enquire about our waitlists, contact our friendly team today.