Every child is unique — therapy should be too.
At Perth Speech Therapy, we use a client-centred approach so therapy is tailored to your child’s strengths, goals, culture, and daily routines. This partnership with families leads to faster, more meaningful progress at home, school, and in the community.
What Is Client-Centred Practice?
Client-centred practice puts your child and family at the heart of decision-making. We recognise that parents know their child best and we design therapy that reflects what matters most to you (Law et al., 2012; RCSLT, 2021).
In practice, that means we:
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Set goals together – meaningful, functional goals like joining playground games, answering questions in class, or asking for help at home (McLeod & McAllister, 2007).
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Build on strengths – we start with what your child can do to boost confidence and motivation.
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Offer flexible delivery – 1:1 sessions, small groups, school visits, and home-based strategies depending on your family context.
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Involve families – we coach parents with easy strategies that fit everyday routines (Dunst et al., 2007).
Why Client-Centred Therapy Works
Research shows that when therapy is family-centred and linked to real life, outcomes are stronger and progress is more durable (RCSLT, 2021; Law et al., 2012). Rather than isolated drills, children practise skills that are relevant, motivating, and immediately useful.
Benefits you’ll notice:
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Sessions are more engaging and child-led.
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Parents feel confident using strategies at home.
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Skills transfer into daily life faster (home, school, community).
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Progress is sustained because strategies are used consistently.
What This Looks Like at Perth Speech Therapy
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Collaborative planning at the first session so goals reflect your priorities.
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Clear home plans (5–10 minute activities) that slot into routines you already have.
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Regular check-ins to celebrate wins and adjust goals as your child grows.
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School and team collaboration (teachers, OTs, psychologists) so support is consistent.
Our promise: therapy that respects your child, your culture, your time, and your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does “client-centred” mean for my family?
It means your values and goals drive therapy. We co-create goals, choose activities your child enjoys, and fit practice into real life (mealtimes, play, bedtime).
How are goals chosen?
Together. We combine assessment results with your priorities (e.g., classroom participation, making friends, telling stories) and set clear, measurable targets.
Will I get strategies to use at home?
Yes. We provide simple, repeatable strategies and short practice plans that match your routines — because little things done often make the biggest difference.
Can therapy happen at school or online?
We offer flexible delivery: clinic-based, school liaison, and telehealth when appropriate. We’ll recommend the best mix for your child.
How will we track progress?
We use brief measures, parent feedback, and real-life checkpoints (e.g., “joins group time without prompts” or “asks for help independently”). Goals are updated regularly.
Contact Perth Speech Therapy
Clinic: Unit 1, 595 Canning Hwy, Alfred Cove, WA
Phone: 0412 256 656
Email/Bookings: [Add your bookings link or email]
Service area: Alfred Cove, Melville, Applecross, Myaree, Attadale, Bicton, and surrounding Perth suburbs.
References
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Dunst, C. J., Trivette, C. M., & Hamby, D. W. (2007). Meta-analysis of family-centered help giving practices research. MRDD Research Reviews, 13(4), 370–378.
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Law, J., Garrett, Z., & Nye, C. (2012). Speech and language therapy interventions for children with primary speech and language delay or disorder. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
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McLeod, S., & McAllister, L. (2007). Children’s speech: An evidence-based approach to assessment and intervention. Pearson.
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Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). (2021). Person- and family-centred care guidance.