Grow Allied Health

Get to know Grow Allied Health

From Grow Allied Health's website.

• Our approach

  Sessions are tailored to each child's developmental stage and individual needs, using play-based, relationship-focused, and creative approaches grounded in evidence. Children might express themselves through drawing, toys and games, build a "feelings toolkit" to help with emotional regulation, practice calming techniques, or roleplay social scenarios. The team works to understand how each child's environment shapes their world and impacts their goals, allowing therapy to be tailored holistically to their circumstances. Sessions might be mobile (at home or school), school-based, or in-clinic, providing flexibility and comfort in familiar surroundings wherever possible.

• Working with families

  Parents and carers are actively involved in the therapy process. The team shares simple, practical strategies to try at home and engages families in planning and decision-making. The provider emphasises supporting the whole family, not just the child, and involves families in understanding their child's needs and progress. Communication with families is central to the holistic approach, particularly for children with complex needs or those on NDIS plans.

• Meet the team

  The team includes Caitlin Houghton (Director and Speech Pathologist), Olivia Beer (Practice Manager), and Josie Harrison (Counsellor). The service is described as a close-knit, multidisciplinary team of kind, engaging, knowledgeable clinicians experienced in working with children across different settings. Counsellors work collaboratively with occupational therapists and speech pathologists to provide holistic, multidisciplinary support that addresses developmental, emotional, social and communication needs.

• Your first visit

  An initial assessment evaluates the child's unique challenges, strengths and goals to form the basis of a personalised treatment plan. The first session typically involves building rapport through sensory play or art, identifying feelings with visuals or social stories, and beginning to practice relevant strategies. The team meets children where they're at, whether shy, chatty, or anywhere in between, ensuring they feel comfortable from the start. Parents receive support through simple, practical strategies to try at home. For NDIS-funded counselling, sessions address goals related to emotional wellbeing, social skills, communication, confidence and behaviour.