Parents consultations provide an opportunity to discuss the little one’s progress. This time can also allow for more detailed discussion on the implementation of specific total communication supports which may require more in-depth explanation, analysis and planning than in regular therapy session where the child is present.
My wealth of experience working in a wide range of primary and special schools as well as special classes as equipped her with extensive expertise in this area. Preschool and school consultations can provide an excellent opportunity to enhance the effectiveness of therapy and provide comprehensive approach to supporting children’s communication skills.
I will complete a period of observation in the classroom to informally assess the child’s skills. I will also engage in thorough discussion with the educator, taking into account the needs of their classroom as well as the needs of the child to create an individualised programme. I then liaise with parents to explain the recommendations made. A copy of the programme is provided for both home and school.
These sessions are designed to provide your child with the support they need right away. Through personalised assessment, targeted goals, and ongoing progress checks, your child can begin making strides in their communication development immediately. This service bridges the gap while waiting for regular therapy, ensuring that your child is on a continuous path toward progress.
Book an appointment now for immediate support and flexible scheduling, all while waiting for regular therapy. Sessions can be conducted virtually for added convenience.
An assessment is required prior to commencing ‘Next Step’ therapy sessions. Information below.
The assessment, which lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes, is designed with your child’s unique needs in mind. Tailored for early intervention and complex communication needs, the sessions are play-based and child-led. I observe both the child and parent-child interactions, using my expertise in child development, observation, and assessment to informally evaluate your child from the moment the session begins.
I may also introduce and trial various low-tech communication supports to determine what resonates best with your child. Following the assessment, personalised therapy goals will be developed to guide and support your child’s ongoing communication development.
I spend time forming connection with each child in order to build trust as the foundation of their therapeutic relationship
‘NextStep’ therapy sessions provide a flexible and effective therapy option. These sessions are tailored to offer support while you wait for regular therapy sessions. They include personalised assessment, targeted goals, and ongoing progress checks.
In my therapeutic clinic based in Wexford Town, I have created a specialised early invention service for children with complex communication needs who are under 7 years of age. In this service I provide one to one, small group intervention and parent training and consultation.
The assessment, which lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes, is designed with your child’s unique needs in mind. Tailored for early intervention and complex communication needs, the sessions are play-based and child-led. I observe both the child and parent-child interactions, using my expertise in child development, observation, and assessment to informally evaluate your child from the moment the session begins.
I may also introduce and trial various low-tech communication supports to determine what resonates best with your child. Following the assessment, personalised therapy goals will be developed to guide and support your child’s ongoing communication development.
I spend time forming connection with each child in order to build trust as the foundation of their therapeutic relationship
Regular therapy is structured in term-based blocks, with appointments scheduled on a three-week rolling cycle. To ensure consistency and progress, you’ll need to commit to all sessions within the block. I will work with you to find the most suitable time for appointments whenever possible. In some circumstances sessions can be conducted virtually for added convenience.
This approach offers several key benefits. Regular sessions provide a stable and continuous approach to your child’s development, ensuring steady progress over time. The structured blocks allow for in-depth assessment and ongoing adjustment of therapy goals. By working closely with you, I tailor each session to your child’s evolving needs, creating a collaborative and personalised therapeutic experience.
Following assessment and when clinical indicated, small group sessions may be arranged. Small group sessions price is subject to group requirements.
An assessment is crucial for understanding your child’s communication needs and setting personalised therapy goals. Susan’s expertise in complex communication needs ensures an accurate and holistic understanding of your child’s profile. While she will consider other assessments, having her complete the assessment helps tailor therapy goals effectively.
After the assessment, Susan will develop personalised therapy goals for your child. You may then choose to wait for regular therapy sessions, or opt for communication clinics as a valid pathway for ongoing support. Susan will guide you on the best approach based on your child’s needs and service availability.
If clinic-based sessions are not suitable for your child due to specific needs, alternative arrangements may be considered. These could include school visits or home visits, online parent sessions, depending on your child’s individual requirements and the feasibility of providing therapy in those settings. Please discuss this with Susan during the referral process to determine if this is a suitable option.
The amount of therapy your child will need depends on their specific communication challenges and goals. During the initial assessment, Susan will discuss a recommended plan. Therapy is typically structured in term-based blocks, with sessions scheduled on a rolling cycle to ensure steady progress. Communication clinics may also be an option to provide ongoing support while waiting for regular sessions, helping to maintain progress and address immediate needs.
Due to the specialised nature of the service and the complex communication needs of the children served, wait times can significant. Susan is continually exploring innovative ways to support access to therapy, including offering ‘NextStep’ therapy sessions and a range of training options.
The assessment, lasting 60 to 90 minutes, is designed to meet your child’s unique needs. It is play-based, child-led, and includes observation of both the child and parent-child interactions. Informal/formal assessment will be conducted. Various communication supports may be introduced to determine the best fit for your child. After the assessment, personalised therapy goals will be developed.
