Language, Literacy and Learning Clinic

Yes! In fact around 50% of individuals who have SLD (Dyslexia) also have DLD/Language Disorder. We will support you to explore your child’s unique profile!

Short answer both! (but speech pathologists in selected situations). Speech pathologists and psychologists assess and diagnose different things but there is some overlap. A psychologist alone can diagnose Specific Learning Disorder (e.g. Dyslexia, language based Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia). But a speech pathologist can also diagnose in some contexts! Speech pathologists can also thoroughly analyse results for Specific Learning Disorder (e.g. spelling, written expression) to pinpoint the breakdown more specifically, allowing for very specific recommendations. Often students have both literacy and language disorders impacting their learning! This is why having a speech pathologist on the team is very helpful. Because we have both psychology and speech pathology at AHSC, we can help you understand what’s going on without a referral to another service. Confused?! Don’t worry, it IS complex. Please enquire we’re happy to chat!

Speech pathologists can do detailed analysis of errors/results leading to more tailored recommendations with resources/ideas for exactly where to start! They have a detailed understanding of the language skills that underpin all reading, writing, numeracy, learning and participation – while psychologists do have some understanding, this is primarily the role of a speech pathologist! In fact, around 50% of children have both written language disorders (e.g. dyslexia) AND an oral language disorder (e.g. DLD) – so it’s helpful to have the clinicians on hand who assess both! Speech pathologists are also one of the main allied health professionals who provide the intervention and support for these areas of challenge. This means we can provide specific, school-focused recommendations.

School aged children (primary or secondary), adolescents, young adults, adults

Dyslexia (Specific Learning Disorder with impairment in reading) is having difficulty learning reading. Including: decoding words, reading fluency, understanding what you read. Note: The term ‘dyslexia’ can also refer to people with spelling difficulties. Dysgraphia (aka Specific Learning Disorder with impairment in written expression) is having difficulty with language-based writing skills. Including: spelling, organising and structuring ideas, using correct grammar/punctuation/capitals.

The term ‘dysgraphia’ is a pesky one! When someone uses the name ‘dysgraphia’ it’s important it is clarified what the breakdown for the student is. ‘Dysgraphia’ colloquially is used to refer to both language-based difficulties (aka Specific Learning Disorder with impairment in writing) AND/OR motor/physical based difficulties (aka Developmental Coordination Disorder that will present as poor handwriting/letter formation). Specific Learning Disorder with impairment in writing strictly does not include motor-based, handwriting difficulties. However, often students will present with both!

Yes, speech pathologists work with individuals with Specific Learning Disorder with impairment in written expression or dysgraphia. Speechies can support with the underlying skills for spelling (such as speech sound errors if relevant, spelling patterns, explicit teaching using a phonics approach), written expression including sentence construction, punctuation and essay writing! Handwriting (motor-based challenges, such as letter formation) is the primary role of Occupational Therapists, but Speech Pathologists may be able to assist in some areas.

We aim to keep our reports brief whilst still including all the important bits! We include background (this is one important part in determining if SLD or DLD is the most appropriate diagnostic label), assessment scores, overview/brief discussion of results (using dot points, yay!), interpretation, diagnosis if appropriate, recommendations and specific classroom adjustments and resources. Reports can be tailored to your unique needs, such as VCAA special provisions for examinations, or DI Adjustments for Disability Inclusion funding applications. In most cases, this doesn’t impact the cost either.

Short answer, probably! Reach out and we can chat about your unique needs. We know assessments can be highly costly so keeping costs down is important to us where possible.

No, self referrals are great! You may also have a letter or referral from a GP, allied health clinician, school or another service. Feel free to share these with us via adminbrunswick@ahscollective.com.au.

Yes! Payment plans are available for those experiencing financial hardship. Please get in contact with us.

Depending on the assessment package, you may be able to use NDIS funds, but it is essential that you check this with your NDIS coordinator (including self managed participants). Unfortunately in most cases NDIS does not fund SLD assessments. Unfortunately, Medicare Speech Pathology plans (e.g. Chronic Condition Management) and Psychology Mental Health Care plans cannot be used for assessment and reports. Private Health funding options may be available – check with your provider! You might also like to enquire about our Payment Plan options.