Nature Talking

131 Shaftesbury Parade, Thornbury VIC 3071

Clinic
Comes to you

About Nature Talking

Nature Talking is a speech pathology practice based in Thornbury that delivers nature-based speech therapy groups, training, and resources for families, schools, and clinicians. Claire Esterman runs nearly all sessions outdoors, integrating nature and outdoor play into speech pathology practice to build social skills and communication abilities through exploration, discovery, and authentic engagement with the natural world.

What's offered

Home or school visits
Clinic sessions

Services provided

Speech Therapy

Nature Talking lists

1:1 Therapy: One-on-one sessions using outdoor play and natural settings to address children's unique communication goals through exploration and discovery.
Therapy Groups: Small group sessions in nature where children learn through play, building social skills and communication abilities through nature-based activities and exploratory play.
School Group Programs: Nature-based group programs delivered in partnership with schools to build communication through outdoor play and foster social participation.
Supervision for Speech Pathologists: Specialised supervision and training for speech pathologists to integrate nature-based approaches and outdoor play into their practice.
Professional Development Training: Training on nature-based speech pathology and implementation strategies, delivered as annual group sessions or customised team training.
Resources: Printable resources including nature hunts, coaching sheets, and visual tools for speech pathologists, educators, and parents.

Fees

Freebie: Comments Vs Questions Ratio Coaching Sheet
Free resource
Free
S Blend Nature Hunt (printable resource)
$8
Ways to connect (visual lanyard)
$15

From Nature Talking's website, April 2026. Fees change, so check with the provider before you book.

Get to know Nature Talking

From Nature Talking's website.

Our approach
At Nature Talking, speech therapy sessions are held outdoors in natural settings where kids can connect best with themselves and others. One-on-one therapy uses outdoor play and natural exploration to address each child's unique communication goals, building skills through discovery and authentic engagement with the natural world. Sessions are tailored to your child's needs while taking advantage of birds, trees and open sky as the backdrop for learning. The philosophy centers on the belief that children thrive when surrounded by nature, and that meaningful outdoor experiences create the ideal conditions for developing communication and social skills.

Locations & areas served

Thornbury
131 Shaftesbury Parade, Thornbury VIC 3071
Get directions to Thornbury (opens Google Maps in a new tab)
- Comes to you
Opening hours
Mon
9 AM to 12 AM
Tue–Fri
12 to 6 AM, 9 AM to 12 AM
Sat
12 to 6 AM
Sun
Closed

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Frequently asked questions

Is Nature Talking a registered NDIS provider?

Nature Talking is not currently listed as a registered NDIS provider on the NDIS Commission register. Contact them to ask if they accept NDIS participants and which plan types (self-managed or plan-managed).

What services does Nature Talking provide?

Nature Talking provides Speech Therapy.

Which areas does Nature Talking cover?

Nature Talking is based in Thornbury, VIC.

How do I connect with Nature Talking?

You can call +61 431 814 311, email them and visit their website.

Do I need a referral to see a speech pathologist?

No referral is needed to see one privately. You only need a GP referral if you want to access Medicare rebates or are going through certain funded pathways.

Is speech therapy covered by the NDIS?

It can be, usually under Capacity Building / Improved Daily Living, if it aligns with your child's plan goals. Check your plan or ask your support coordinator.

At what age should we see a speech pathologist?

There's no "too early." If you have concerns about your child's talking or understanding at any age, an assessment can clarify whether support would help.

How long are sessions and how many will we need?

Session length varies between clinics and services, so check it with the provider when you book. The number depends on your child's goals; the pathologist will recommend a plan after the initial assessment.