Playful Connections Speech Pathology

Get to know Playful Connections Speech Pathology

From Playful Connections Speech Pathology's website.

• Our approach

  Therapy sessions use a neurodiversity affirming, child-led, play-based approach that celebrates all communication and interaction styles as valid and different rather than disordered. Sessions are highly individualized to incorporate your child's motivations, strengths and interests, with a focus on authentic, spontaneous communication development. Parent and caregiver coaching is central to the work, recognizing that most growth happens outside therapy sessions in everyday life. A parent, caregiver or support worker must be present during all sessions to enable home and site goal development. The therapist draws on evidence-based training including Hanen programs, Circle of Security, DIR Floortime, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, and specialized support for gestalt language processing and alternative communication methods.

• Working with families

  You know your child best and will be supported to feel confident and capable in your role as your child's first teacher and primary communicator. The therapist collaborates with you to navigate language development, feeding and mealtime differences, and neurodivergent parenting challenges, helping you build your own toolbox of skills. Parent coaching is embedded in every session, with strategies designed to translate into everyday life outside therapy. Clear communication and reliability are prioritized, with transparent discussions about fees, goals, reports and any involvement of other professionals in your child's care.

• Meet the team

  Belinda is a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist and member of Speech Pathology Australia with over 15 years of experience across community health, education, and private practice. She brings lived experience as a parent to three neurodivergent children, alongside professional training in child development, communication, play, autism, ADHD, trauma, and sensory processing. Her further training includes Ross Greene's Collaborative and Proactive Solutions Model, Circle of Security facilitation, Hanen programs, DIR Floortime, gestalt language processing, and alternative communication methods. She is the sole clinician and works within specific clinical areas to ensure highly targeted, quality support.

• Your first visit

  Your first step is a free 15-minute phone call to chat about your questions and get a feel for how the therapist works—you'll discuss what you're looking for and what next steps might look like. If you proceed, an initial assessment is tailored to your child's unique needs, with no set fee structure. The assessment includes session time, written recommendations, a home program, and a formal report if needed, all discussed with you in advance. This individualised approach means there's flexibility to meet your family where you are and ensure the assessment captures the full picture of your child's communication needs.