Autism Support Newington | Speech & Occupational Therapy

What is Autism

Autism is a developmental difference that shapes how people perceive, process, and respond to the world. It may influence communication, social skills, sensory experiences, interests, and ways of thinking. Each autistic person is unique, so there’s no single description that applies to all.

At Chatterbox, we view autism as a natural part of human diversity. We focus on understanding each child’s individual strengths, needs, and preferences, and we work alongside families to provide support that is respectful, empowering, and tailored to each child.

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:

Taking the Time to Understand

We take the time to get to know each little person and their family, understand what matters to them, and create goals that are meaningful for their life at home, at school, and in the community. Most importantly, we work in partnership with families to make sure our support is respectful, practical, and empowering.

Speech Pathology And Autism

Speech therapy provides flexible support for autistic children, depending on their individual profiles and communication styles. For some, therapy may target spoken language development; for others, it may use visuals, gestures, or AAC to promote clear and 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?

Our goal-setting process starts with a conversation with you to uncover what matters most for your child. We then create smaller, achievable steps that support confidence and make success feel within reach.

When we design goals, we factor in your child’s age, development, and everyday life so the plan is meaningful, practical, and tailored to support their learning.

How many sessions will my child attend each week?

Based on the latest research and your child’s needs, your clinician will suggest a therapy schedule designed for the best outcomes.

Most therapies depend on consistency and regular practice. The more often children can apply their skills, the more progress they tend to make. In a perfect world, therapy would run for hours each week, but we also recognise this doesn’t suit every family.

Some therapies, for example the maintenance stage of stuttering intervention, may involve reduced intensity with fortnightly or monthly sessions, but this is rare rather than standard.

At Chatterbox, sessions are available in 60 or 90 minute formats. We deliver weekly therapy consistent with research, with opportunities for extra sessions or intensive blocks, a great option for school holidays.

How long will my child need therapy?

We would love to be able to provide an exact answer to this question; however, a number of factors come into play when discussing how long your child may attend therapy, such as your child’s age, personality, learning style, developmental level and diagnoses.

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?

Every therapist on our team is registered with Speech Pathology Australia, bringing both qualifications and experience. They’re dedicated to supporting children’s growth with family-friendly, evidence-based care.

We ensure your child sees the same speech pathologist each session, so they may form a strong, trusting bond. With that consistency, your child may feel safe and supported, and therapy can be tailored more precisely to their needs.

But life doesn’t always follow a perfect schedule, and that’s where being part of a connected team really helps. Whether your clinician is away, you need to move an appointment, or want to book an extra session, we’ve got your back. We offer families the option for their child to see another one of our qualified clinicians when needed, so therapy stays consistent and flexible.

Our clinicians collaborate closely, sharing strategies and progress so sessions stay consistent, even if another therapist steps in. Experiencing a new clinician from time to time may also help your child practise flexibility, strengthen generalisation, and gain confidence communicating with different people, just like in everyday life.

How can I get the most out of our therapy sessions?

The great news is that you can play an active role in helping your child make the most of therapy and continue moving ahead:

Keep up with therapy by coming to sessions consistently
Follow through with practice activities at home between therapy visits
Whenever you can, move sessions instead of cancelling to support steady progress
Boost progress by joining holiday therapy intensives
Actively take part in sessions, your support makes a big impact

The more consistent and involved you can be, the more your child may benefit.

Do you offer online speech therapy for children?

Yes! We offer both in-clinic appointments and online speech and occupational therapy sessions to suit your family’s needs. Online therapy is a great option for busy families, children who feel most comfortable at home, or those living in remote or rural areas.

What funding options are available?

There are a number of options to help cover therapy costs. You can learn more about funding options here.

Several options are available to help with the cost of therapy. You can find out and 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?

Our main clinics are strategically located in Bella Vista, Kingswood, Oran Park, Parramatta, and Penrith, each with an approachable admin team available to assist you and your family every step of the way. Free parking is offered at every location, making your experience for assessments or therapy smooth and convenient.

While our autism support therapists in Parramatta primarily help people from surrounding suburbs including Parramatta, Rosehill, Westmead, Harris Park, Rydalmere, Merrylands, Granville, Auburn, Newington, Wentworthville, Northmead, Oatlands, Lidcombe, and Guildford, our clinics are more than welcoming to anyone looking to use our services across Sydney.