Our Philosophy
- Best practice.
- Parents know their child best.
- Team approach.
- Goal Setting
- Children learn best when they feel confident and comfortable.
Using research evidence and experience and we provide a personalised program for your child.
You are the expert on your child’s abilities and needs. We’ll work together for best results for your child.
Your child may be receiving a range of services. With your permission, we communicate with other services to ensure a wholistic approach to intervention.
Parents, Speech Pathologist and child (where appropriate) work together to develop goals.
We tailor assessments and activities to ensure your child, no matter their ability or personality, blooms.
Services
TYPES OF SERVICES
- Late talkers
- Speech difficulties
- Language difficulties (listening and using words)
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (PODD, Key Word Sign)
- Feeding
- Literacy
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Telehealth
- PODD books —contact us for customisation and pricing details.
Where?
- At our clinic rooms at Henley Beach
- At your house, your child’s School, Kindergarten, ELC, Child Care Centre or anywhere (library, park, playgroup etc).
- In your home via Telehealth
- Chat with us about the most appropriate setting for your child
When?
- At a time that suits you! Before school, during the day and after school sessions are available.
- We also provide services in the school holidays.
- After hours appointments are also available upon request.
How to refer?
- A referral from a doctor or allied health professional is welcomed but not necessary.
- Please contact Bloom via phone or email to discuss your child’s needs.
Fees & Rebates
Sessions are charged based on time rather than type of session.
We do not charge more for initial sessions or assessment sessions.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS): Bloom can provide services to children with an NDIS plan if they are ‘plan managed’ or ‘self managed’. Standard NDIS rates apply.
Private Health Insurance rebates: Your private health insurance may entitle you to a rebate for Speech Pathology services. Contact your insurer for more information.
Medicare rebates: Your GP may write an ‘Enhanced Primary Care Plan’ for your child which includes Speech Pathology. This will attract a rebate from medicare.
About Us
Amanda Best
Amanda is the founder and principal Speech Pathologist of Bloom.
She has 20 years of experience working as a paediatric Speech Pathologist. After a stint working for DECD Amanda then worked at Novita Children’s Services initially as a speech pathologist, then Senior Speech Pathologist and finally as the Profession Leader of Speech Pathology. She was also the clinical lead of Speech Pathology at Child’s Play private practice.
Amanda’s experience and passion is in the area of Early Intervention. She has experience working with children with a range of needs from speech and language delays and late talkers to those with complex communication needs.
Amanda has training and/or certification in the following:
- Hanen It takes two to talk program
- Hanen More than Words program for children with ASD
- Key Word Sign presenter
- PODD – pragmatically organised dynamic display books
- PODD – advanced workshop
Caitlin Reader
Caitlin’s wealth of life experience combined with speech pathology skills makes her therapy sessions fun and inviting for children.
Caitlin has experience working with preschool and school-age clients in education settings as well as in private practice and understands the importance of making therapy fun, functional and meaningful to each client. She has a particular interest in language and speech sound disorders.
Caitlin has training and/or certification in the following:
- Key Word Sign
- What’s the buzz?
- Hanen It takes two to talk program
- Sounds Write Literacy Intervention
Claire Wallbridge
Claire is a speech pathologist with over 16 years’ experience working with children in both Education and private practice settings. She has a core focus on speech, language and literacy development, particularly with 3-8 year olds.
Claire is experienced in working together with families, preschools and schools to set meaningful and individualized goals for children. She is able to support education staff to help children to achieve their goals and access the curriculum.
As a mother of 2 children, Claire enjoys playing a part in children’s development, making therapy functional and fun and celebrating the progress children make.
She has a particular interest with working with children with speech sound disorders.
Claire has training and/or certification in the following:
- SOS Approach to Feeding
- Sounds Write Literacy Intervention
Lara Ferris
Lara is a paediatric speech pathologist who has enjoyed clinical and research work over the past 10 years and recently completed her PhD.
Lara has worked with children and families across hospital and community settings, and as a mother of a little boy with Down Syndrome, she continues to learn and grow through the process of parenting a child with a disability. Lara is passionate about supporting children, particularly in the early years, with their development of speech, language and mealtime skills.
Jessica Wee
Jessica is an experienced speech pathologist specializing in early intervention and school-aged children with communication disorders.
Jessica has 12 years experience as a speech pathologist, working in the UK and Australia. Jessica enjoys working in early intervention with children with communication disorders as well as school aged children. With a passion for learning and a compassionate nature, Jessica is committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of her clients.
Lily McLaren
Lily is a vibrant and enthusiastic speech pathologist bursting with energy and positivity.
With her infectious enthusiasm, Lily creates a welcoming and engaging environment for clients of all ages. Through tailored therapy solutions and a warm personality, she is dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Taylor Duncan
Taylor is a speech pathologist with a fresh take on intervention for a range of speech and language needs.
Taylor is a friendly and enthusiastic speech pathologist who is passionate about helping children develop their communication skills. She creates engaging therapy sessions tailored to each child’s unique needs. With a supportive and encouraging approach, Taylor strives to help children of all ages grow and succeed in a fun and nurturing environment.
Kara Mammone
Kara is a speech pathologist who makes therapy fun and personalised to your child’s needs.
Kara is a dynamic speech pathologist who enjoys supporting children in developing their communication skills. She takes a play-based and individualized approach to make therapy fun and enjoyable. Kara is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where children can build confidence and reach their full potential.
Emily Santoro
Emily is a passionate speech pathologist who helps children develop confidence in their communication skills.
Emily is a caring and enthusiastic speech pathologist who loves helping children build their communication skills. She creates fun and engaging therapy sessions tailored to each child’s needs. With a warm and encouraging approach, she is dedicated to helping children communicate with confidence.
Natalie De Pasquale
Natalie is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD) who has previously worked in both public and private practice before following her interest of paediatric nutrition.
As a mother of three boys, Natalie has a passion for creating positive relationships with food from an early age. She especially loves supporting families with practical tips and advice on how to make food and meal times an enjoyable part of family life.
Natalie has training and/or certification in the following:
- Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding
- DAA National Paediatric Training Course
- Hatch Dietetics, Paediatric Eating and Feeding Course
Contact Us
Join our Team
We are looking for vibrant and energetic Speech Pathologists to join our Bloom team.
We are seeking Speech Pathologists who enjoy supporting families and education sites to help children become confident communicators.
Bloom prides itself on providing flexibility for our employees and offers flexible working arrangements such as choosing your own start and finish times. Tell us what works for you!
For more information or to apply please send your resume and cover letter addressed to our director Amanda at hello@bloomspeech.com.au.
We look forward to hearing from you!
