Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make an appointment?

To make an appointment contact Chit Chat 4 Kids Speech Pathology by phone on 0408 124 386, or complete the enquiry page on this website and we will contact you within 2 days to gather more information about your child, discuss the services that we offer and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We can arrange an appointment time during this conversation.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

Speech Pathology does not require a referral, you can self-refer. You will, however, need a doctor’s referral if you are planning to claim a rebate through Medicare using a Chronic Disease Management / previously Enhance Primary Care.

How much will Speech Pathology cost?

At Chit Chat 4 Kids Speech Pathology we have considered the financial commitment involved in proceeding with Speech Pathology Services. We aim to be fair and accessible in our fee structure. Our fees are based upon the type of service we provide and the time that we spend with you. These services are tailored to your individual needs. Please contact Chit Chat 4 Kids Speech Pathology to discuss your individual circumstances.

Can I claim any rebates from my private health insurance fund or Medicare?

Private health insurance funds generally include Speech Pathology in their "extras" or "ancillary" cover options, so you may be eligible for rebates depending upon the level of cover you have. The amount that will be paid varies from fund to fund, and for the type of service claimed, so you will need to contact your health fund directly to determine the rebates you will receive.
You may also be eligible for rebates for up to five (5) appointments per calendar year, through the Medicare Allied Health Initiative. Your doctor will need to complete a Chronic Disease Management Plan (Previously known as an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC)), before you attend Speech Pathology. You will be required to pay for your Speech Pathology services at the time of your appointment, however the Chit Chat 4 Kids Speech Pathology receipt will contain all the information required to claim your rebate from Medicare.
Chit Chat 4 Kids is also a registered provider under the "Helping Children With Autism" and “Better Start for Children with a Disability” Early Intervention funding.

How do I know Speech Pathology is required?

At Chit Chat 4 Kids we believe that it is never too early to ask a question or seek advice. We would encourage you as parents to make a phone call to discuss any concerns that you may have. We are happy to provide advice about whether an assessment and/or treatment may be warranted.

What happens at a Speech Pathology assessment?

Assessments are about gathering information about your child’s communication profile. It often involves a combination of approaches including interviews, observation, and formal and informal testing activities.
Assessments may be conducted for a variety of reasons including:
• Diagnostic purposes
• Funding purposes
• Planning intervention
At the end of the assessment, the Speech Pathologist will write a report and discuss the results. She will then advise whether any of the areas assessed require further development or therapy intervention.

What does therapy involve?

Therapy is generally offered as 45-minute appointments. During appointments, there is usually a discussion between the parent and therapist to review the progress with previously set goals and activities. Following this discussion, the same targets may be practised further and new targets may be introduced and practised. Practice activities may include a range of table-based / formal tasks as well as less structured play based activities. The emphasis will be on success and positive reinforcement. Parents are asked to play an active role in the therapy sessions. Home practice activities will then be discussed at the end of the session.

How long will I need to attend?

The length of time that you will need to depend will be dependent on the needs of your child. There is no ‘average’ time for children and the number of sessions required for intervention. The amount of practice done between therapy appointments and the quality of that practice will impact on the number of appointments required.
At Chit Chat 4 Kids we tailor therapy to suit the needs of your child and family. We can see your child weekly, fortnightly or monthly depending on your needs.

How can I get more information?

General information about Speech Pathology can be found at: http://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au