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What Is Speech Pathology?

  • 1 min

Speech pathology (also called speech therapy) helps people communicate and swallow safely so they can participate fully in everyday life, at home, school, work, and in the community.

Speech pathologists support children and adults with challenges related to speech sounds, language, voice, fluency (stuttering), social communication, literacy, and swallowing (dysphagia).

Speech pathologists provide assessments, tailored therapy programs, and practical strategies. This might include exercises to strengthen speech and voice, language and literacy activities, stuttering management, social communication coaching, mealtime and swallowing support, and the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems when needed. They also work closely with families, carers, teachers, and other health professionals to make sure support is consistent and effective.

“At HenderCare, speech pathology is about giving people the confidence and tools to be heard and understood. Whether that’s supporting a child to find their first words, helping someone recover communication after illness or injury, or making mealtimes safer and more enjoyable, our focus is on practical, person-centred outcomes that matter to each individual.”— Zoe, Head of Allied Health, HenderCare

The goal of speech pathology is to build independence, connection, and quality of life, so people can communicate confidently and enjoy the moments that matter.