Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder which can affect a person’s communication ability and social skills. It may include repetitive actions, obsessive interests and other behaviours which differ across individuals depending on the nature of their Autism. Another defining factor of Autism is the impact it has on speech and language. The team at Chatterbox Speech Pathology are experienced in treating speech problems related to Autism. Each treatment style and program must be tailored to suit the individual and this is something Chatterbox Speech Pathology recognises and implements.
One of the defining factors of Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD is difficulty with language comprehension, speech and non- verbal communication. This means that the individual might experience difficulty with social interaction. Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy can work to address the issues experienced.
Autism differs greatly in symptoms and severity. The list below describes speech problems that may be experienced by children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder are also likely to experience difficulty communicating with others. A person with Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD may experience some or all of the following communication challenges which can be managed by a Speech Pathologist or Occupational Therapist.
Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists should be included in the treatment plan for people with Autism due to their expertise in the area of language and speech. Speech Pathologists work with children of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD to find the best way to improve their communication skills.
An important consideration is that the Speech Pathologist and Occupational therapist tailors their treatment to suit the individual. At Chatterbox Speech Pathology, the experienced and thoughtful team understand the complexities of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the individuality of each patient. Therefore, the treatment provided is carefully planned in order to achieve improvements in the patient’s quality of life.
Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy is an important part of the management of Autism for children. It can aid in the development of communication and social skills to improve the patient’s quality of life.
Book an appointment now to meet with one of our friendly and caring speech pathologists.
Chatterbox Speech Pathology & Occupational Therapy are here to support you by continuing to provide healthcare to our community.
Our team including speech therapists and occupational therapists are continuing to offer care to address the source of your problem and pain at our Oran Park, Penrith, Bella Vista & Kingswood clinics. We have escalated our already stringent hygiene routines to ensure a safe environment for all.
We are also offering online speech therapy and occupational therapy appointments.
Get started straight away and call us on 02 4731 2432 for our Penrith clinic, 02 8814 1821 for our Bella Vista clinic or 02 4647 6777 for our Oran Park clinic to speak with our friendly team, ask any questions and to start getting help or book online now!
Jennifer Kay
Chief Executive Officer
Bachelor of Applied Science (Speech Pathology)
Jennifer Kay graduated from Sydney University with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Speech Pathology). She is the founder and Director of Chatterbox Speech Pathology and established the clinic in 2004. Previous to this Jennifer worked as a Speech Pathologist in both government and private sectors providing therapy in clinic, preschools, schools and in home settings.
Jennifer is extremely passionate when it comes to Speech Pathology and has a particular interest in early intervention, language and literacy development. She believes that communication skills are the foundation for success later in life. Jennifer values the importance of developing intervention which is individually tailored to the child and their family. Jennifer believes that there is no better feeling than helping a child to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
Jennifer has a strong belief in providing a family friendly practice where learning should be fun! The therapists are provided with the latest assessment tools in order to obtain a holistic picture of a child’s strengths and difficulties. Jennifer supplies the team with a combination of bright colourful resources and technology in order to engage and motivate a child.
Jennifer works closely with her team of Speech Pathologists. She provides constant support, mentoring and training to ensure that Chatterbox delivers the highest standard of Speech Pathology services to children and their families. She has an evidence based philosophy and believes in the importance of Professional Development as it continually updates and develops a clinician’s skills. This ensures the Chatterbox team is able to provide families with the latest scientifically supported therapy.
Driven by a strong passion for Professional Development, Jennifer has sought out leaders in the field of Speech Pathology to present workshops to the Chatterbox team and Speech Pathologists Australia wide. She has worked alongside some of the leading Australian experts in Speech Pathology such as; Dr Roslyn Neilson, Dr Barbara Dodd, Professor Jacqueline Roberts and Dr Caroline Bowen. Jennifer has also hosted international guest speakers such as UK based Developmental Psychologist Dr Kevin Durkin and Speech and Language Pathologist Professor Gina Conti-Ramsden as well as Dr Rhea Paul author of Language Disorders: Infancy through Adolescence.
Jennifer understands the impact that speech and language difficulties have on young children and their families. She has presented numerous workshops and seminars over the years providing guidance and advice to both Teachers and Parents focusing on early intervention and language development. Jennifer has developed positive relationships with many of the local preschool centres and schools by offering support, advice and teacher mentoring.
When Jennifer isn’t living and breathing Speech Pathology she enjoys spending time with her 3 adorable kids – Sophia, Ava and Spencer as well as her husband Leigh. She enjoys indulging in a massage, catching up with friends and has a love for travel and looks forward to her next big family holiday.