What is Autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that influences how a person experiences and interacts with the world around them. It may affect communication, social interaction, thinking styles, sensory processing, and interests. Every autistic person is unique; there’s no one-size-fits-all description.
At Chatterbox, we see autism as one of the many ways people experience the world. Our approach is centred on recognising each child’s unique abilities and needs, while partnering with families to offer support that is respectful, collaborative, and individually tailored.
How can Chatterbox help?
At Chatterbox, our therapists work closely with autistic children and their families, celebrating individual strengths and addressing areas where extra support may be beneficial. Therapy may include the following, though each plan is customised to the child’s needs:
Communication
Emotional regulation
Sensory regulation
Social connection
Play
Daily routines
Self-care tasks
Taking the Time to Understand
We spend time getting to know each child and their family, focusing on what truly matters to them, and designing goals that are relevant for their home, school, and community life. Most importantly, we work side by side with families so our support remains respectful, practical, and empowering.
Speech Pathology And Autism
Speech therapy may support autistic children in many different ways, depending on their individual strengths, needs, and communication style. For some children, therapy may focus on developing spoken language; for others, it might involve using visuals, gestures, or AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) to support effective communication.
Speech therapy aims to help children develop skills in comprehension, self-expression, and social connection, all in ways that feel authentic and comfortable to them. At Chatterbox, our therapists collaborate with each child, respecting their individual communication profile and valuing every way they connect and express themselves.
Occupational Therapy and Autism
Occupational therapy supports autistic children by helping them participate in everyday activities that are meaningful to them, like playing, getting dressed, managing emotions, or joining in at school. Therapists work alongside children and families to understand sensory needs, build regulation strategies, improve their motor and play skills, and develop practical skills for daily life. Therapy is guided by the child’s interests and goals, with a focus on supporting independence, confidence, and well-being. At Chatterbox, our OTs take a compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming approach that respects each child’s unique way of experiencing the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are therapy goals set?
We set goals by talking with you. Together, we’ll figure out your big goals: what matters most for you and your child. From there, we break things down into smaller, achievable steps so your child can build confidence and experience success along the way.
When setting goals, we also consider your child’s age, developmental stage, and everyday needs to make sure the plan is realistic, meaningful, and tailored to how they learn best.
How many sessions will my child attend each week?
Your clinician will create a therapy schedule guided by evidence and tailored to what may work best for your child.
Effective therapy usually relies on steady, regular input. Repeated practice gives children more opportunities to grow their skills and reach better outcomes. Ideally, this would be several hours a week, but we know that’s not always manageable for families.
There are a few therapies, such as the maintenance stage of stuttering treatment, that may only need less frequent sessions, fortnightly or monthly, though this is uncommon.
At Chatterbox, families have the option of 60 minute or 90 minute sessions. We offer weekly therapy sessions in line with the research, with options for additional weekly sessions and intensives (a great idea during school holidays!)
How long will my child need therapy?
The length of time a child may attend therapy varies, influenced by things like age, developmental level, learning style, personality, and specific diagnoses, so there isn’t a simple answer for every child.
Your therapist will be able to give more guidance after spending time with your child, but remember that learning takes patience and consistency. There isn’t a quick or easy fix.
Who will be my child’s speech therapist?
All our therapists are qualified, experienced, and registered with Speech Pathology Australia. They’re passionate about helping children grow and thrive through evidence-based, family-friendly support.
Your child will see the same speech pathologist each session, someone who gets to know them well and builds a strong, trusting relationship over time. Consistency aims to help your child feel safe, supported, and understood, allowing us to tailor therapy in a way that truly works for them.
Because life doesn’t always run to plan, our team-based approach makes a difference. Should your clinician be away, or if you’d like to shift or add an appointment, another skilled clinician can step in so therapy continues smoothly and flexibly.
Since our team works hand in hand, your child’s goals and progress are always shared, making each session seamless even with a new therapist. Meeting different clinicians now and then may actually benefit your child, potentially helping them adapt, generalise skills, and build confidence across varied communication partners.
How can I get the most out of our therapy sessions?
Here’s the good news, there are easy ways you can support your child to get the best out of therapy and keep progress on track:
- Make sure your child attends therapy regularly
- Help your child by completing practice activities between each therapy session
- Try to shift appointments rather than cancel them outright
- Use holiday breaks as an opportunity for intensive therapy sessions
- Get involved during sessions — your input makes a difference
The steadier and more involved you are, the bigger the potential gains for your child.
Do you offer online speech therapy for children?
Yes! Families can choose between in-clinic appointments and online speech and occupational therapy sessions, depending on what works best. Online sessions are ideal for busy households, kids who prefer home, or families in regional or rural locations.
What funding options are available?
There are a number of options to help cover therapy costs. You can learn more about funding options here.
Funding support is available in a range of forms to assist with therapy costs. Learn more about funding options here.
Is there a waiting list?
Good news! We currently have no waiting list, which means your child can likely get started straight away. Early support can make a big difference, and we know that delays can be frustrating. That’s why we’ve made it a priority to keep access to therapy as smooth and timely as possible.
Where are you located?
With our primary clinics based in easily reachable locations across Bella Vista, Kingswood, Oran Park, Parramatta, and Penrith, you’ll find a friendly administration team on-site to help guide you and your family. Enjoy the convenience of free on-site parking at all clinics, making your visit for assessments or therapy as simple and stress-free as possible.
While our autism therapy services in Bella Vista primarily support people from surrounding suburbs including Bella Vista, Norwest, Kellyville, Stanhope Gardens, Glenwood, Rouse Hill, Baulkham Hills, Seven Hills, Castle Hill, and Kings Langley, our clinics are more than welcoming to anyone looking to use our services across Sydney.