Speech Delay & Late Talkers
For toddlers and young children who aren’t talking as much as expected for their age.
“What will this actually cost?” is one of the first things Merrylands families ask, and we answer it before you book. Our children’s speech pathologists help with late talking, unclear speech, language and social communication, about 7 km away in Northmead.
We’ll tell you the session fee, whether your private health extras might cover part of it, and how NDIS self-managed or plan-managed funding could apply, before you decide to book rather than after your first invoice.
How often your child comes is a conversation too. Some children do well weekly, others fortnightly with more practice at home in between. We’ll recommend what fits your child’s needs and your budget, not a fixed package.
From Merrylands Station and the shops around Pitt Street, our Northmead clinic is about 7 km north, through Westmead.
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, a short drive north of Merrylands.
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 for sensory, fine motor and self-care, with funding talked through first.
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 Merrylands Station, usually 13–18 minutes by car via the Great Western Highway and Bridge Road. Free parking is available at the clinic.
Yes. Our speech pathologists see Merrylands children from birth to 16 at our Northmead clinic. Call us on (02) 9037 1163 and we’ll talk through fees, funding and a time for an initial consultation.
Fees depend on the type and length of the session. Call us on (02) 9037 1163 and we’ll give you current fees before you book, and explain how private health extras or NDIS funding might apply. See funding options.
Not always. Some children do well weekly, others fortnightly with more home practice in between. We’ll suggest a frequency based on your child’s goals and review it with you as things change.
No referral is needed. You can book an assessment with us directly. If your child already has a report from a GP, paediatrician or school, bring it along, but it isn’t a condition of booking.
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 Merrylands. See all the areas we serve, or our occupational therapy in Merrylands 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.
