Staff Spotlight: Helen, Speech Pathologist

Helen is one of our Speech Pathologists in WA!

Helen completed a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology at the University of Western Australia. Following this, she studied Teaching English As a Foreign Language and taught English in rural Peru. In 2015, she graduated with a Master in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Sydney. Helen has spent many years as a Speech Pathologist working with children and is proficient in treating speech sound disorders and stuttering, fostering language, literacy and social skills and facilitating mealtime interventions for fussy eaters. She is now also working with adults with communication and swallowing difficulties.

Read on to learn more about Helen.

What made you study Speech Pathology?

Like many Speech Pathologists, I was drawn to the profession with the ultimate goal of being able to improve the lives of others.

I originally thought that psychology was the path I would take but after completing my first degree I studied Teaching English as a Second Language and volunteered as an English teacher in rural parts of Peru. During this time I also volunteered in the local hospital for children with disabilities and taught equine therapy with a Speech Pathologist from Germany. Her description of her work led me to apply for a Masters program in Speech Pathology.

I really didn’t know exactly what I was signing up for, but after my very first therapy session as a prac student, I knew that I had chosen the right career for me. For me, Speech Pathology is the perfect pairing of my love of teaching, interest in healthcare and desire to empower vulnerable populations.

What is your favourite part about working with our participants?

After working with a mostly paediatric caseload for the last 5 years, I have really enjoyed working with adults! I love learning from others, hearing their stories and being able to positively impact their quality of life.

Can you think of a time recently that made you feel really proud to be working with Better Rehab?

Some reasons I feel proud to be working with Better Rehab include being part of a company that is forward thinking and innovative. When I started with Better Rehab, there was a lot to learn quickly but the company’s own tools and systems really helped me. I have also found the Better Rehab team to be such an inspiring and motivated group of therapists and I feel proud to be working alongside such an awesome team.

What is something unique or interesting about you?

I have travelled to 35 countries.

I have probably tried most sports out there, from diving, ballet and barre to lacrosse, sailing and boxilates.

If you would like to book an appointment with Helen or another Speech Pathologist from Better Rehab, please call our friendly Admin team on 1300 0 REHAB (1300 073 422).