Debunking 6 Common Misconceptions About Speech Therapy

Common Myths:

1.      "When in a session, we just play, we are not actually working on speech"

2.       "Speech therapy is only for correcting speech sounds"

3.       "Children outgrow speech problems on their own"

4.       "You need a doctor’s referral to see a speech therapist"

5.       "Speech therapy is a quick fix"

6.       "All speech therapists do the same thing"

Speech therapy is a field that's often misunderstood, leading to various misconceptions about what speech therapists do and who can benefit from our services. The myths you hear can sometimes prevent families from seeking the help they need. In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common misconceptions that we hear about speech therapy and reveal the truth that we see instead.

1.       “When in a session, we just play, we are not actually working on speech”

While we often do spend a lot of the time in sessions playing, I can guarantee you that there are reasons behind the play and goal targeting involved in the play. From a parents perspective, it can be hard at times to understand why we are doing certain things in therapy sessions so I encourage you to ask if you are unsure. I do my best to explain to parents what it is we are doing, why we are doing it and how it is addressing our mutual therapy goals.

2.       “Speech therapy is only for correcting speech sounds”

Working on articulation is a large aspect of being a speech therapist but did you know we actually work in many areas? Speech therapists work with infants all the way up to our most senior citizens. We can help people with receptive or expressive language difficulties, stuttering or fluency disorders, voice disorders, swallowing difficulties or disorders (dysphagia), cognitive-communication disorders, augmentative and alternative communication aids and early intervention. There is so much we can help with!

3.       “Children outgrow speech problems on their own”

For some of our littlies, this could be the case but we are never able to predict who will “grow out” of their errors and who will need a speech therapist to help them articulate clearer. We suggest getting a speech therapist to assess your child and determine the errors they have. The speech therapist will then be able to make recommendations based on their findings. We can also reassess a child after some time has passed to see if they are going to need further help or if they might pick some skills up independently. In the cases I have seen, there have been huge benefits to supporting children through targeted intervention.

4.       “You need a doctor’s referral to see a speech therapist”

In Australia, you definitely do not need a referral to see a speech therapist in private practice. A referral may be beneficial so you can access a Medicare rebate for some sessions but only if you want to. However, if you are wanting to be seen through the public system, you will need a referral from your GP or Paediatrician.

5.       “Speech therapy is a quick fix”

Similar to myth 3, we are never able to predict how long a child will need to be involved in speech therapy. For some it is only a few months, for others they could be engaged in therapy for a few years. This depends on several factors unique to the individual. Some examples include, the age of the individual, their difficulties, their availability to attend therapy, how often they can see the therapist and how much practice is completed between therapy sessions working on strategies provided to them.

6.       “All speech therapists do the same thing”

This is simply not the case, while we are all trained and obtain the same (or very similar) qualification, the experiences, additional training and interests we have after university shape us into very different therapists. It is important to know that not all therapists can see all types of individuals for therapy, in the same way, not all individuals will gel well with all therapists. I am not shy in letting families know if there is a need that I cannot help with and I encourage families to do the same. If the relationship between your child and their therapist isn’t working for whatever reason, please chat with them to see if you can work it out, if not they can you to find a therapist who might be better suited. We all have different passion areas and it can take time to find the perfect match. 

These misconceptions can sometimes stand in the way of accessing the support you or your child/loved one needs. Please know there is support available and we really do want to help!

If there is anything we can do or if you’d like our help with speech therapy and all it encompasses for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. It is never to early or too late to seek help!

Remember to be kind and share joy!

-            Allanah (Speech Therapist)