Heidi and Monique simplify the complexities of speech therapy costs in Australia, exploring various funding sources such as community health services, schools, NDIS, and private therapy options.
The discussion emphasises the importance of understanding how therapy is billed, the expected costs, and the role of family support in achieving therapy goals. Heidi and Mon also touch on the significance of neuroplasticity in therapy outcomes and the need for realistic expectations regarding the duration and frequency of therapy sessions.
RESOURCES FROM TODAY'S SHOW
Meet Monique Martino: https://popfamily.au/team/monique-martino/
Royal Far West Website: https://royalfarwest.org.au/
Download the free 'What Affects the Cost of Speech Therapy' quick guide👇
🔗 https://popfamily.au/podcasts/how-much-does-speech-therapy-cost/
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS💡
• Therapy is not a fixed duration. Unlike the short, 10-session blocks often seen in the public system, long-term goals for conditions like dyslexia can require 12 to 24 months or more of consistent therapy.
• Frequency and Duration Matter: Weekly sessions are generally recommended to start, especially when learning new skills, to build momentum and rapport. Session lengths of 45 to 60 minutes are common, with 45 minutes being Pop's average.
• Practice Reduces Cost: Therapy success relies on neuroplasticity, which requires repetition and consistent practice. The more home practice and support you implement, the quicker the progress, and the less money is spent in the long run.
• Communicate your Budget: Speak openly with your therapist about your financial budget to create a plan that works best for your family. Use the initial assessment phase (3 to 6 sessions) as a checkpoint to get a better prognosis and adjust your budget.
CONNECT WITH US 🤝
Listen to more episodes | popfamily.au/podcasts/
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HOSTS | Heidi Trusler, Founder of Pop Online Speech Therapy and Speech Pathologist
MUSIC | Track: "Mountain Anthem" by Ryan Carlson
PRIVACY | Hosted on Libsyn. See libsyn.com/tos-policies/privacy-policy/ for more information.
DISCLAIMER
General Information Only (Not Medical Advice) The information provided in this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for personalised assessment, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified Speech Pathologist or other registered healthcare professional. Nothing in this podcast should be interpreted as medical, therapeutic, or clinical advice. You should seek individualised medical professional advice if you have specific concerns.
Australian Context This podcast is created within the Australian regulatory and professional context, including the Speech Pathology Australia standards. Listeners outside Australia should consider any local guidelines, regulations, or requirements.
Content Rights & Modifications Pop Family reserves the right to edit, update, modify, replace, or remove any part of this podcast or its associated materials at any time, without prior notice. This includes audio episodes, transcripts, show notes, resources, or linked content. Information presented in earlier episodes may not remain current, complete, or accurate over time.
No Liability Pop Family and any guests accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, or injury that may arise from reliance on the information shared in this podcast.
