Speech Pathology Lead
I get to show families that connection is possible. Too often people believe that verbal speech is the only means of communication and connection – that’s simply not the case.
Qualification: Bachelor of Speech Pathology, James Cook University, 2013
Special interests: Early intervention (children 0-7 years), non or minimally verbal clients requiring augmentative or alternative communication methods, complex disability and dual diagnosis
Phoebe’s inspiration to pursue a career as a Speech Pathologist began at a very young age as she was growing up with family members living with disability. Phoebe is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who supports clients across the lifespan who have difficulty communicating due to developmental delays and disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, intellectual impairment, global developmental delay, neuromuscular disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome and chromosomal abnormalities.
Clients value Phoebe’s holistic approach and her ability to help them explore creative solutions. Phoebe’s philosophy is that what best meets the needs of the client and their family or support network is as important as well-researched evidenced-based treatments and therapies.
Phoebe has a particular interest in early intervention (0-7 yrs). Phoebe enjoys supporting clients who require Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices – she enjoys supporting her clients and their families to open up a whole new world of functional communication.
Phoebe uses a range of best practice techniques, treatments and therapies, including:
- HANEN – More Than Words & It Takes Two to Talk
- DIR Floortime
- Sequential Oral Sensory Approach to Feeding (SOS)
- Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets (PROMPT) – tactile kinesthetic approach to speech and articulation therapy
- Extension AAC training – Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
- Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) low and high tech options
- direct and alternate access speech software and device training (Tobi Dynavox, Liberator, Assistiveware, Smartbox)
- Beginner Key Word Sign & Auslan
- The Secret Agent Society (SAS) trained program facilitator
As Speech Pathology Lead, Phoebe is developing the speech pathology service at Adaptability Therapy from the ground up. Her experience, clinical advice, guidance and determination are highly valued by clients and the broader team.
Clients and families remain the source of Phoebe’s inspiration. It’s their determination to overcome challenges, celebrate the little wins no matter how small, and to always see the joy and love in the world that is her motivation.
Phoebe accepts referrals in and around Brisbane Central and Brisbane West.