Teenagers · Ages 13–16

Speech & OT support for teens 13–16

Respectful, neuro-affirming speech therapy and occupational therapy that help teenagers build confidence, independence and the everyday skills they need for high school and beyond.

At a glance

Teen support at a glance

Ages13 to 16 yearsYoung people in their early and middle high school years.
Who you’ll seeSpeech & OT togetherSpeech pathologists and occupational therapists under one roof in Northmead.
Getting startedNo referral neededBook directly. A GP referral is only needed for a Medicare rebate.
FundingNDIS, Medicare & PHIWe support NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families.
Therapist and young person working together at The Bridge Effect
How we work

A safe space for teens to grow

The teenage years are a time of change, socially, emotionally and physically. We walk alongside young people and their families through this stage, offering respectful, neuro-affirming support that helps teens thrive as their authentic selves.

Our speech pathologists and occupational therapists work together with your teen on goals that matter to them, from friendships and self-expression to study skills and independence.

Teen-led goalsYour teen has a real say in what we work on.
Neuro-affirmingWe celebrate identity and build on strengths.
RespectfulA safe, judgement-free space to be themselves.
Family partnershipYou’re kept informed and supported too.
What we can help with

Support for the teenage years

Our speech pathologists and occupational therapists support teenagers with:

Whether your teen is neurodivergent, has a diagnosis, or is simply finding their way, we’re here to support them with empathy, clarity and respect.

When to reach out

Signs it may be worth a chat

Some common reasons families of teenagers get in touch. Your teen’s own concerns matter just as much as yours.

  1. Friendships feel hard

    Finding it tricky to join in, keep conversations going or understand social situations.

  2. Feeling overwhelmed

    Big feelings, stress or sensory overload getting in the way at school or at home.

  3. Keeping on top of school

    Struggling to plan, organise, start or finish tasks and assignments.

  4. Everyday independence

    Finding routines, self-care or life skills harder than they’d like.

Not sure? Give us a call on (02) 9037 1163 and we can talk it through.

Working with you

Supporting your teen, and you

Adolescence can be a time of uncertainty for parents too. We work with your teen and your family so everyone feels supported.

Teen-led

Goals that matter to them

We involve your teen in setting goals and planning sessions, so therapy feels relevant and respectful.

Partnership

Keeping you informed

We share progress and practical strategies with you, while respecting your teen’s growing independence.

Respect

A safe, judgement-free space

Young people can explore who they are and how they communicate in an environment that celebrates neurodiversity.

FAQs

Questions about teen support

What families of teenagers often ask us. Can’t see yours? Call us on (02) 9037 1163.

Do you see teenagers?

Yes. We support young people up to 16 years of age with speech therapy and occupational therapy at our Northmead clinic.

Will my teen have a say in their therapy?

Yes. We involve teenagers in setting their own goals and planning sessions. Therapy is more effective, and more respectful, when it focuses on what matters to the young person.

Can I sit in on my teen’s sessions?

That depends on what works best for your teen. Some young people like a parent in the room and others prefer some independence. Either way, your clinician will keep you informed and share strategies you can use at home.

Does my teen need a diagnosis to get support?

No. Many young people we see don’t have a diagnosis. If your teen is finding communication, friendships, organisation or everyday skills hard, that’s reason enough to get in touch.

How is therapy for teenagers funded?

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.

Explore more

Services for teenagers

Speech therapy and occupational therapy under one roof, so your teen’s goals are joined up across both.

Speech Therapy

Support with communication, self-expression, social communication, speech clarity and AAC.

Occupational Therapy

Support with emotional regulation, sensory needs, executive functioning and everyday independence.

Funding options

How NDIS (self-managed and plan-managed), Medicare and private health insurance can help with the cost of therapy.

Also see our pages for early childhood (0–6), school-aged children (7–12) and parents and caregivers, or the suburbs we serve.

Get started

Ready to take the first step?

Whether your teen is just starting out or has had support before, we’re here to help them, and your family, take the next step.

  1. Get in touch

    Send an enquiry or call us with a little about your child and what you’re hoping for.

  2. We match you with a clinician

    We’ll match your child with the right speech pathologist or occupational therapist.

  3. Book your first appointment

    Your child’s initial assessment takes place at our Northmead clinic.