FAQs

True Talkers is based on the Gold Coast, Queensland. Face-to-face services are available across the Gold Coast, including in clinic, home and school visits depending on location and availability. I also provide telehealth Australia-wide, making it possible to access support from home wherever you live.

No. You don't need a diagnosis to access speech pathology support at True Talkers. If you or your child is experiencing communication challenges — or you simply have questions about communication development — we can talk about what's happening and decide whether assessment or support may be helpful.

You don't need a referral to see me as a private client. Some funding and rebate pathways have their own eligibility and referral requirements. For example, an appropriate referral is required to claim eligible Medicare speech pathology rebates. If you're unsure, we can discuss this during your discovery call.

Neuro-affirming practice recognises that there isn't one “right” way to think, communicate, learn or interact with other people. Therapy isn't about making someone appear more typical or teaching them to hide who they are. Instead, we'll identify communication strengths and needs, explore strategies that are genuinely useful and work towards goals that are meaningful to the individual. The goal isn't to change who you are. It's to make communication work better for you.

It's simply a conversation. We'll talk about what's happening, what you or your child would like help with and what you're hoping to get from speech pathology. I'll answer your questions and explain what I think the next step could be. There's no obligation to book therapy afterwards — it's an opportunity for both of us to decide whether True Talkers feels like the right fit.

The first appointment is about getting to know you. We'll talk about communication strengths, areas that feel difficult, what's already working and what you'd like to change or make easier. Depending on your needs, I may recommend further assessment, or we may begin developing goals and practical strategies together. Therapy is collaborative — you'll have a say in what we work on and what meaningful progress looks like for you.

Yes. True Talkers offers peer groups designed to provide opportunities for connection, communication and shared experiences in a supportive environment. Groups are matched according to factors such as age, communication needs and interests wherever possible. If you're interested in joining a group, please get in touch and I can let you know about upcoming opportunities.

Absolutely. Communication doesn't happen only during a therapy session. With the client's consent and where appropriate, I can collaborate with parents, caregivers, teachers and other professionals. This can help the people around the client better understand their communication needs and create environments that support successful communication.

Yes. Home and school visits are available across the Gold Coast, subject to location and availability. Telehealth is also available Australia-wide. 

Yes. Telehealth speech pathology is available Australia-wide. For some people, being in their own environment can make communication and therapy feel more comfortable and relevant to everyday life. We can discuss whether telehealth is a good fit for you or your child during your discovery call.

Yes, eligible clients can use NDIS funding for speech pathology services at True Talkers.

Medicare rebates may be available if you meet the eligibility requirements. You don't need a Medicare referral simply to see me, but you do need an appropriate referral to claim a Medicare rebate. There are different Medicare pathways with different eligibility requirements and session limits, so I can let you know what information you may need to discuss with your GP.

Private health rebates may be available, depending on your policy and level of cover. It's best to check directly with your health fund before your appointment to confirm whether speech pathology is included and what rebate applies.

You don't have to figure that out before contacting me. If communication is making school, friendships, work, relationships or everyday life more difficult — or you simply have concerns you'd like to discuss — book a free discovery call. We'll talk about what's happening and whether speech pathology seems like an appropriate next step.