Speech Pathology: What They Do and How They Help
28 Aug 2025
Speech Pathology: Helping People Communicate and Connect
Senior speech pathologists Abbie Rossetto and Tom Gauci highlight the importance of communication in everyday life.
“Communication is central to everything we do – building relationships, expressing needs, learning, working, and taking part in society,” Tom said.
For children, communication difficulties can affect learning and literacy. For adults, they can impact relationships, mental health, and access to services. Older people, especially those with dementia or after a stroke, may find daily life harder and lose independence.
Speech pathology support can include therapy sessions, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools like picture boards or apps, home programs, swallowing management, and voice therapy.
“The right support can be life changing,” Abbie said. “It can help a child speak clearly, give a person with a disability a voice, help someone regain speech after a stroke, or enable safe and enjoyable eating for those with swallowing problems. It’s about connection, dignity, and quality of life.”
Learn more about accessing help at the Speech Pathology Clinic | Tasmanian Department of Health.
#SpeechPathologyWeek
Source: Tasmanian Government
