Speech pathologists
Speech pathologists study, assess, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in both children and adults. This includes difficulties with oral language (understanding others and expressing oneself), social communication, speech sounds, literacy, fluency (such as stuttering), and safe eating and drinking. People with mental health conditions often experience challenges in these areas. Speech pathologists play a vital role in ensuring no one is overlooked due to communication barriers. Learn more about their role, qualifications, and where they work across Queensland.
What is a speech pathologist?
Speech pathologists work with both children and adults in a variety of mental health settings to help identify and treat communication and swallowing support needs.
Become a speech pathologist in Queensland
What qualifications do I need?
To become a speech pathologist in Australia, you must complete either a Bachelor’s or a Master’s degree in Speech Pathology. These qualifications must be accredited by Speech Pathology Australia (SPA), the national body that oversees professional standards and ethics in the field.
To practise professionally, you must be eligible for Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) status with SPA. You do not need to be a member of SPA, but you must meet the certification requirements, including having a recognised qualification from an Australian university or having completed the Overseas Qualification Assessment process with SPA; meeting recency of practice hours and continuing professional development requirements.
While there is no separate qualification for “mental health speech pathologists”, some universities offer subjects or electives focused on mental health. In Queensland, relevant programs can be found at:
- The University of Queensland
- James Cook University
- University of Southern Queensland
- Australian Catholic University.
Where do speech pathologists work?
Speech pathologists work in a wide range of settings, including:
- hospitals
- disability and health services
- education settings
- public service environments
- not-for-profit organisations
- private practices.
They support individuals across the lifespan from:
- vulnerable pregnant mothers
- infants and young children
- adolescents and youth
- adults
- older adults.
Beyond clinical practice
In addition to direct therapy, speech pathologists may also:
- provide consultation, education and training to others who support people with communication and swallowing needs
- work in research roles
- contribute to health promotion and prevention programs focused on early intervention.
Early identification and support for communication and swallowing needs leads to better outcomes.
A growing need in Queensland
Currently, there are only around 60 mental health speech pathologists working within the Child and Youth Mental Health Service (CYMHS) across Queensland. This highlights:
- the increasing demand for speech pathologists in mental health
- the career opportunities available in this specialised and essential area.
The daily life of a speech pathologist in Queensland
A typical day for a Speech Pathologist includes assessing communication needs, planning interventions, and delivering therapy. This might involve conversational exercises, reading and writing support, swallowing management, or group therapy sessions.
They often work one-on-one with clients or facilitate small groups depending on the setting. Sessions are tailored to each individual’s needs and may include strategies for building social skills, improving emotional expression, or safely managing eating and drinking.
Speech pathologists also spend time conducting new assessments, diagnosing communication disorders, and collaborating with other health care professionals to ensure holistic support.
Common questions about speech pathologists
A speech therapist is another term for a speech pathologist.
Speech pathologists support children and adults with a wide range of mental health needs. These include, but are not limited to:
- mood and anxiety disorders
- depressive disorders
- attachment disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- eating disorders
- psychotic disorders (including schizophrenia).
It is also common for people with neurodivergent conditions to have co-occurring mental health needs. Therefore, speech pathologists often work with individuals who have:
- autism
- ADHD
- intellectual disability
- personality disorders.
Speech pathologists are crucial in advocating for those with complex mental health conditions. They are trained to notice and evaluate specific signs and symptoms that other allied health professionals may overlook. With this knowledge, they can help diagnose conditions and collaborate on and develop key treatments.
The demand for speech pathology has grown and it is estimated to continue to do so. As of 2023, there were only 40-45 speech pathologists available per 100,000 people in Australia. As of March 2025 in Queensland, there are only 60 mental health speech pathologists in the Child and Youth Mental Health Service.
While salaries may vary depending on position and experience, as of 2025, entry-level positions average between $70,000 and $80,000 a year. More experienced speech pathologists average $100,000 a year, sometimes reaching up to $130,000.
Find training providers in Queensland
