Speech Delay & Late Talkers
For toddlers and young children who aren’t talking as much as expected for their age.
A preschooler learning to be understood and a ten-year-old who struggles to explain their ideas need very different support. Our children’s speech pathologists see Seven Hills children from birth to 16, adjusting support as they grow, about 7 km away in Northmead.
The goals change as children get older. For a three-year-old it might be first sentences. At school age, it’s often following instructions, retelling a story or explaining an idea clearly. For teenagers, it can be the language of the classroom and of friendships.
Because we see children from birth to 16, your child doesn’t have to move to a new clinic just because they’ve had a birthday. We review goals with you as needs change, and step back when support is no longer needed.
From Seven Hills Station, our Northmead clinic is about 7 km east via Fitzwilliam Road.
We see children from birth to 16 for late talking, unclear speech, language difficulties, social communication and AAC.
All sessions are held at our one clinic in Northmead, east of Seven Hills.
Our speech pathologists support children across the full range of speech, language and communication needs.
For toddlers and young children who aren’t talking as much as expected for their age.
For children whose speech is unclear or hard to understand.
For children who find it hard to understand or use language.
Neurodiversity-affirming support, including gestalt language processing.
Support for children who use communication devices, PODD or key word sign.
OT from pencil grip in the early years to getting organised for high school.
Not sure where to start? See all speech therapy services or talk to our client care team.
A typical children’s speech therapy program at The Bridge Effect includes:
Weekly or fortnightly sessions with a qualified speech pathologist. Frequency depends on the nature of your child’s needs.
Specific, measurable goals based on your child’s assessment results and your family’s priorities.
We teach you the strategies we use so practice fits into everyday routines. The hours you spend with your child each day matter most.
Typically every 10–12 sessions, we review progress and adjust goals as your child develops.
Reviews from families who visit our Northmead clinic.
Most families use NDIS, Medicare, private health insurance, or a mix, to help fund speech therapy.
The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families. Speech therapy is typically funded under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living.
Learn moreA GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (up to 5 allied health sessions a year) or the Item 135 pathway can provide a rebate.
Learn moreMany extras policies include a speech pathology benefit. We provide receipts in the format your fund needs.
Learn moreFamilies without funding are welcome as private clients. Our current fee schedule is available on request.
Learn moreChildren under 9 without an NDIS plan may be eligible for early intervention support through the NDIS Early Childhood Approach, without needing a formal diagnosis. Medicare and private health rebates can’t both be claimed for the same session. Ask us which pathway fits your family.
Our speech pathologists are members of Speech Pathology Australia and work closely with our occupational therapists, so your child’s goals are joined up across both services.
Can’t see your question? Call us on (02) 9037 1163.
About 7 km from Seven Hills Station, usually 15–20 minutes by car via Fitzwilliam Road. Free parking is available at the clinic.
Yes. Our speech pathologists see Seven Hills children from birth to 16 at our Northmead clinic. Call us on (02) 9037 1163 and we’ll help you book an initial consultation.
Probably not. We see children up to 16. Older children often work on language for learning, such as understanding instructions, explaining ideas and organising what they want to say. See language disorders.
Yes. Take the T1 from Seven Hills Station, then a bus to Northmead. Allow about 25 minutes and check Transport NSW for current timetables.
No referral is needed. You can book with us directly. If your child’s school has raised a concern, bring any notes along.
Yes. The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families. If your child’s plan includes funding for speech therapy (typically under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living), we can work within your plan. More about NDIS funding.
We serve many suburbs around Seven Hills. See all the areas we serve, or our occupational therapy in Seven Hills page.
Early support can make a big difference, and we’re here to walk this journey with you.
Contact us directly, or speak with your GP, paediatrician or support coordinator about a referral. A referral is not required.
Our client care team matches you with the right clinician and books an initial consultation.
We get to know your child, assess their strengths and needs, and set goals together with you.
