Problems with Communication can occur with people of all ages.
They can arise from many different conditions and can be present at birth or happen slowly or suddenly.
WHAT DO SPEECH PATHOLOGISTS DO?
Speech Pathologists assess, diagnose and treat individuals who are unable to communicate effectively. Speech Pathologists help with:
LANGUAGE: Difficulties may be experienced by people in understanding or using spoken or written messages. For example, a person who has brain damage following a head injury or a child with a learning disability or someone who cannot comprehend instructions.
SPEECH: Some people have difficulty with the production of sounds; for instance a child who may not be able to make the 'K' sound but may use another sound and say 'tar' instead of 'car', or an adult who has a lisp.
VOICE: The quality of the voice can be effected by overuse, surgery, tension and disease. Any of these conditions can cause husky or very nasal voice, inappropriate volume or pitch and even total loss of voice.
STUTTERING: This is an interruption to the flow of speech by repartition of sounds, words, or complete blocks in speech. Early Intervention is very important for stuttering.
HEARING LOSS: Hearing loss of any degree can interfere with communication in children and adults. The child who is hearing impaired at or near birth may have difficulties in learning speech and language. Adults who became hearing impaired may need help with adjusting to their communication difficulties.
SWALLOWING: Assistance and treatment are also provided to help children and adults who have difficulty with chewing or swallowing.
LEARNING: Good language skills are important in children's academic development.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
* $6.50 for Health Card Holders
* $10.00 for non-card holders
If you are experiencing any difficulty with these costs please speak to the Speech Pathologist.
Contact
Appointments can be made by phoning the Kerang office on 03 5451 0200.