You’re part of the team
We listen to what matters to your family, set goals together and explain what we’re seeing in clear, jargon-free language.
Warm, play-based speech therapy and occupational therapy for babies, toddlers and preschoolers at our Northmead clinic. We support your child’s first words, play, movement and readiness for school, at their own pace.
Every child is wonderfully unique, and that includes how they grow, learn and connect with the world. Our speech pathologists and occupational therapists work together to give your child personalised, evidence-based support that fits their individuality.
Whether your child is developing in their own time, communicating in their own way, or exploring the world through a different lens, we’ll support their journey with warmth, compassion and respect.
Our speech pathologists and occupational therapists support young children with:
You don’t need a diagnosis to get support. Many children we see are simply developing in their own way and benefit from a little extra help.
Every child develops at their own pace, but these are some common reasons families get in touch. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
Not yet using single words, or not pointing or gesturing to share things with you.
Not yet joining two words together, or understanding fewer words than you’d expect.
Hard for familiar adults to understand, or finding play with other children tricky.
Finding pencils, scissors, dressing, routines or big feelings harder than other children their age.
Not sure? Give us a call on (02) 9037 1163 and we can talk it through. Read more about speech delay and late talkers.
Therapy works best when it carries into everyday life, so we work alongside you every step of the way.
We listen to what matters to your family, set goals together and explain what we’re seeing in clear, jargon-free language.
We share simple, practical ideas you can use during play, bath time, mealtimes and outings, so progress continues between sessions.
As your child gets closer to starting school, we can focus on the skills that help them settle in. See our school readiness program.
What families of young children often ask us. Can’t see yours? Call us on (02) 9037 1163.
There’s no minimum age. We support children from birth to 6 years, including babies, toddlers and preschoolers. If you have a concern about how your child is communicating, playing or moving, it’s worth getting in touch. Early support can make a real difference.
No. You can book with us directly. A GP referral is only needed if you’d like to claim a Medicare rebate, and NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families don’t need one to use their plan. See our funding options for more.
No. Many of the children we see don’t have a diagnosis. If you’ve noticed something about how your child communicates, plays, moves or manages their feelings, that’s reason enough to get in touch. Our clinicians can help you understand your child’s strengths and needs.
Your child’s first appointment is an initial assessment at our Northmead clinic. Your clinician will chat with you about your child’s history and your concerns, spend time playing and observing, and then talk you through what they’ve noticed and possible goals. If you have any reports from other professionals, bring them along.
The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families. Medicare rebates may be available with a GP referral under a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan, and many private health extras policies cover speech pathology and occupational therapy. Our funding options page explains each one.
Speech therapy and occupational therapy under one roof, so your child’s goals are joined up across both.
Support with first words, speech sounds, understanding language, social communication and AAC.
Support with sensory processing, motor skills, emotional regulation, self-care and school readiness.
How NDIS (self-managed and plan-managed), Medicare and private health insurance can help with the cost of therapy.
Also see our pages for school-aged children (7–12), teenagers (13–16) and parents and caregivers, or the suburbs we serve.
Whether you’re just starting to explore support or you already know what your child needs, we’re here to help your family take the next step.
Send an enquiry or call us with a little about your child and what you’re hoping for.
We’ll match your child with the right speech pathologist or occupational therapist.
Your child’s initial assessment takes place at our Northmead clinic.