If you’re new to the NDIS or just starting to explore speech therapy for your child, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. Every parent wants the best for their child — someone who understands their needs, works well with the family, and makes progress feel possible.
Finding the right NDIS speech therapy provider can make a massive difference in your child’s communication, confidence, and everyday interactions. And if you’ve already got a paediatric psychologist involved, it’s even more important to find someone who fits in well with your child’s support team.
This guide will walk you through what to look for, what to ask, and how to trust your gut when it comes to picking the right speech therapist for your little one.
Why Speech Therapy Is So Important
Speech therapy is about so much more than just saying words correctly. It can help with understanding language, expressing ideas, managing social interactions, improving feeding and swallowing, and even supporting literacy.
For children with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or anxiety, speech therapy can be a game-changer. And when it’s funded through the NDIS, you’ve got the opportunity to access tailored, high-quality support.
If your child is also working with a paediatric psychologist, you’ll want a speech therapist who’s collaborative — so all your child’s goals work together and everyone’s on the same page.
Step 1: Understand What Your Child Needs
Before diving into lists of therapists, take a moment to think about what your child actually needs. Is it help with pronunciation? Understanding instructions? Social communication with peers? Feeding difficulties?
Different therapists have different areas of expertise, so knowing your child’s goals will help you narrow the search.
Not sure where to start? Your GP or paediatric psychologist can guide you on what kind of support would be most helpful, especially if there are underlying challenges like sensory needs, anxiety, or a recent diagnosis.
Step 2: Check for NDIS Experience
While not all speech therapists are NDIS registered, it’s important to choose someone who understands how the NDIS works — especially when it comes to goal-setting and progress reporting.
You can use:
- NDIS-registered therapists (required if your plan is NDIA-managed)
- Non-registered therapists (if your plan is self-managed or plan-managed)
A therapist familiar with NDIS can help you:
- Align therapy with NDIS goals
- Write detailed reports for plan reviews
- Understand how to use funding wisely
Look for therapists who clearly advertise NDIS speech therapy services or have experience working with funded families.
Step 3: Qualifications Matter – But So Does Experience
All speech therapists in Australia should be certified by Speech Pathology Australia. That’s your first check.
Then, dig a bit deeper:
- Have they worked with children similar to yours?
- Do they specialise in early intervention, neurodivergent kids, or AAC (augmentative communication)?
- Are they familiar with co-working alongside a paediatric psychologist?
It’s completely OK to ask about their background. A great therapist will be more than happy to talk you through their experience.
Step 4: Look for the Right Personality Fit
Let’s be real — you could find the most qualified therapist in the world, but if your child doesn’t feel safe and comfortable with them, therapy’s not going to go far.
Look for someone who:
- Connects easily with kids
- Uses play-based learning, songs, or games
- Respects your child’s pace and preferences
- Communicates clearly and kindly with parents
See how your child responds in an initial session. Do they warm up quickly? Are they engaged? These are good signs you’re in the right place.
Step 5: Location and Flexibility
Don’t underestimate how much logistics matter. Between school, work, other appointments, and life in general, you want a therapist that fits into your routine — not complicates it.
Things to consider:
- Are they close to home or school?
- Do they offer home visits or telehealth?
- Do they have availability during times that suit your family?
- Do they charge for travel under your NDIS plan?
Also check whether they offer flexible rescheduling in case your child has an off day — because we all know that happens sometimes!
Step 6: Read Reviews and Ask Around
Word of mouth is gold. Ask other parents, teachers, or your support coordinator if they know someone they’d recommend. Facebook groups for local NDIS families are a great place to start.
Also take a peek at:
- Google reviews
- Testimonials on provider websites
- Community forums or parenting groups
What you’re looking for is consistency. Do people say the therapist is warm, reliable, good with kids, and helpful with NDIS paperwork? That’s the kind of feedback you want to see.
Step 7: Know What to Expect in Therapy
Good speech therapy should be structured but fun, goal-oriented but flexible.
You can expect:
- A full assessment in the first few sessions
- A clear therapy plan aligned with your NDIS goals
- Regular updates on your child’s progress
- Suggestions for home practice (easy and manageable, not overwhelming)
- Reports in time for NDIS plan reviews
Sessions might include games, storytelling, role-play, or communication tools depending on your child’s needs and age.
Step 8: Stay Open to Re-Evaluating
Sometimes, even with all the research in the world, a therapist just isn’t the right fit — and that’s okay.
You might need to reconsider if:
- Your child isn’t engaging after multiple sessions
- Communication with the therapist is poor
- There’s no clear tracking of progress or goals
Remember: you’re not locked in. The NDIS allows flexibility so you can find the right people who truly get your child and help them shine.
Step 9: Understand How NDIS Funding Works for Speech Therapy
Speech therapy is generally funded under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living in your child’s NDIS plan.
Things to check:
- Does your plan allow for self-, plan-, or NDIA-managed spending?
- How much is allocated for allied health or therapy supports?
- Does your therapist charge in line with the NDIS price guide?
Your therapist can help you plan your sessions around your budget. For example, weekly 30-minute sessions might stretch further than hourly ones — it depends on your child’s needs and your funding.
Also ask if they charge for:
- Assessments and progress reports
- Travel (if they’re visiting your home or school)
- Non-face-to-face time (e.g. prepping resources or writing reports)
Being clear upfront will help avoid surprises down the track.
Online vs. In-Person Sessions: What Works Best?
Post-COVID, lots of therapists now offer online speech therapy via telehealth — and for some families, it’s a lifesaver.
Online speech therapy might be ideal if:
- Your child is more relaxed at home
- You live in a rural or remote area
- Your child has anxiety or sensory sensitivities
- It’s hard to travel due to other siblings or school commitments
But in-person therapy might be better if:
- Your child needs help with physical tasks like feeding
- They struggle to focus through a screen
- You prefer face-to-face interaction
Some providers offer a hybrid model — a mix of online and in-person depending on your schedule and child’s progress.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right NDIS speech therapist for your child can take a bit of time, but it’s worth the effort. With the right support in place, you’ll see your child grow in confidence, communication, and independence.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Whether you lean on your paediatric psychologist, NDIS planner, or other parents for guidance – there’s a whole community ready to support you and your child on the journey.
So take it one step at a time, ask plenty of questions, and most importantly – find someone who truly sees your child for who they are.
