The Allied Health team offer psychology and speech pathology for our patients.
Getting started with therapy can sometimes be quite anxiety provoking. Many patients are unsure of what to expect when they make an appointment to see a psychologist. At Northside Clinic, we endeavour to keep you informed at every step of the process.
At the beginning of therapy, the psychologist begins with an assessment period. This allows you and the psychologist to get to know one another and also provides time for the psychologist to get a thorough understanding of the problem(s). The assessment period usually consists of an interview and a questionnaire.
Once the assessment is completed, your psychologist will discuss with you their recommended formulation. The formulation outlines the factors that have contributed to, and are maintaining the problem(s). From here the psychologist will discuss different treatment options and develop an individual treatment plan.
Treatment varies depending on the presenting problem(s). Some patients benefit from a short-term approach whereas others may require a longer-term approach. A thorough assessment will provide the psychologist with a good indication of what will be required and approximately how long therapy will take. Different psychologists specialise in different treatment approaches.
As treatment progresses, the psychologist will make regular reviews of your progress, to ensure treatment goals are on track and to overcome any obstacles which may present themselves as treatment progresses.
Speech pathologists study, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders, including but not limited to difficulties with speaking, listening, understanding language, reading, writing, social skills, stuttering and using voice.
Speech pathologists work with people who have:
- Difficulty communicating because of developmental delays such as Autism or ADHD
- Acquired brain injuries such as stroke or head trauma
- Learning disability
- Intellectual disability
- Cerebral palsy
- Dementia
- Hearing loss
- Gender & voice dysphoria.
People who experience difficulties with safely swallowing food, drink and medication can also be helped by a speech pathologist.
Treatment programs begin with an initial consultation. We conduct a thorough assessment of you or your loved one’s presenting condition, and establish goals for further sessions where necessary. In each follow up session we will generally introduce you to a number of new strategies and exercises, to be carried over into home practice.
Strategies provided within sessions are as varied as the presenting conditions, and are tailored to provide you with optimal outcomes. The sessions are generally kept short to allow for optimal engagement and learning, and to reduce the occurrence of muscular and vocal fatigue.