Job description
Position Description: Speech Pathologist
Job Title: Speech PathologistLocation: TruganinaPosition Type: Full-time, Part-timeReports To: Team Leader, Clinical Manager, or equivalent
Key Responsibilities:
Assessment and Diagnosis:
Conduct comprehensive assessments of speech, language, communication, and swallowing abilities.
Develop individualized treatment plans based on client needs, utilizing standardized tools and clinical observations.
Work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care and accurate diagnosis.
Treatment and Intervention:
Provide therapy for speech, language, and communication disorders, including articulation, fluency, voice, and language delays.
Offer support for swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) by implementing safe eating and drinking techniques.
Design and implement personalized therapy programs for clients, ensuring they are effective and tailored to individual needs.
Use a range of therapeutic techniques such as speech exercises, language games, and cognitive-linguistic therapy.
Documentation and Reporting:
Maintain accurate and detailed records of client assessments, treatment plans, and progress reports.
Regularly review and update intervention programs based on client progress and feedback.
Prepare reports for medical professionals, families, and caregivers, as required.
Collaboration and Communication:
Work as part of a multidisciplinary team including doctors, occupational therapists, psychologists, teachers, and social workers.
Liaise with families and caregivers to provide education and support in managing the client's condition.
Advocate for the client's needs in educational, community, and healthcare settings.
Client Education and Empowerment:
Educate clients, families, and caregivers on strategies to improve speech and language development or manage swallowing difficulties.
Offer advice on the use of communication aids, including assistive technology for those with severe communication impairments.
Professional Development:
Stay up-to-date with current practices, research, and clinical guidelines within the field of speech pathology.
Participate in continuing education, workshops, and peer supervision to enhance clinical skills.
Engage in reflective practice and contribute to service improvement initiatives within the organization.
Advocacy and Community Engagement:
Raise awareness about the importance of speech and language development, particularly in early childhood.
Participate in community outreach programs, schools, and public health initiatives.
Advocate for accessible speech pathology services in underserved or rural areas.
Skills and Qualifications:
Qualifications:
A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Speech Pathology from a recognized Australian university or an equivalent qualification.
Certification and Registration: Registration with Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) or equivalent regulatory body is required.
Police Check and Working with Children Check (depending on the role and location).
Key Skills:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients, families, and colleagues.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills for assessing and diagnosing disorders.
Proficiency in using evidence-based practices and clinical tools for assessment and intervention.
Knowledge of speech, language, and swallowing disorders across the lifespan.
Ability to develop tailored therapy plans and goals based on client needs.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Cultural competence, particularly in working with diverse populations.
Experience:
Previous experience in a clinical, hospital, school, or community setting is highly desirable, though graduate speech pathologists may also apply.
Working Conditions:
Hours of Work: Typically standard working hours (Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM).
Some roles may involve weekend work, evening sessions, or flexibility depending on the client's needs.
Caseload Management: Caseloads will be mostly Paediatric, but a typical caseload may include multiple clients at different stages of therapy.
Career Progression:
For fresh Graduates we are running the Fresh Grad program spanning over 12 months to make them well versed.
Opportunities for leadership roles, management positions.