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The Communication Studio is an Autistic led, Neurodiversity Affirming, and Trauma Informed Speech Pathology clinic. We are a safe space for people to be who they are, and explore their best, and most genuine selves.
The Communication Clinic was founded in late 2022 after I realised managing a large group practice was taking me away from the work I loved the most. In 2010 I founded what grew to be a large multidisciplinary allied health clinic. I worked with an amazing team and we achieved some great things over 13 years, changing the shape of allied health services available locally. As the industry changed and the business grew, my role also changed and I found myself constantly pulled away from the work I enjoyed the most. I made the decision to hand over my clinic to others who could thrive in that environment, and launch something more true to myself, that would allow myself, and my clients to flourish.
We tend to do things a little differently here at the studio. We don't believe in a 'one size fits all' approach, and promise to work with you, in ways that work for you (and us!), to help you reach your communication goals.
We are always open to collaborations and look forward to creating accessible community opportunities with local partners into the future.
Based in the Beaconsfield, Victoria, we work online, and in person - wherever you need your support to be. You can find out more about our services here
Hi! I'm Mel, an AuDHD (Autistic and ADHD) Speech Pathologist, proud parent of multiply neurodiverse children and Principal Speech Pathologist of The Communication Clinic. With over 15 years of experience in speech pathology, combined with lived experience, I enjoy a unique perspective gained through the combination of both my personal and caregiver experiences.
My passion lies in supporting individuals of all ages and stages to enhance their everyday communication skills, whatever that looks like for them. I firmly believe in using a personalized and structured approach that caters to each person's specific circumstances.
Throughout my career, I have worked with infants, children, young adults, adults, and seniors from diverse backgrounds and lifestyles. Whether it's at home, in the workplace, within educational settings, or during recreational activities, I offer support for the development of practical communication skills and systems.
I have undertaken postgraduate study in public health and also Autism. Whilst I rely on evidence-based practices, I also understand that population-level studies are unlikley to fully capture an individual's experience and outcomes - adapting your support to your needs is essential. I support clients to balance the risks and benefits based on their individual situation, and constantly observe, monitor, and adjust the support I provide to ensure we meet your desired goals.
Flexible, outcome centred approaches are central to the support I offer. I am mindful mainstream opportunities may not suit everyone. I have firsthand experience in home education, including un-schooling approaches, as well as traditional and alternative schooling settings, traditional employment and self employment, and enjoy finding solutions tailored to your unique needs.
The Communication Studio recognises the importance of acknowledging and respecting the traditional custodians of the lands where we operate. We acknowledge the Bunurong/Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Peoples of the Kulin Nation, on whose lands we are privileged to live, work and play. We pay our sincere respects to the Elders, past, present, and emerging of lands we are on, and the lands which we visit. We honor their deep connection to land, culture, and community. We acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded, and we affirm that this has always been, and will always be Aboriginal Land. We strive to foster allyship and are guided by the leadership and self-determination of First Nations Peoples.
The Communication Studio aims to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone. We celebrate and value diversity, and we firmly stand against any form of discrimination. The Communication Clinic is dedicated to embracing diversity and eradicating all forms of discrimination in the provision of our wellbeing services. We celebrate and affirm people of all ethnicities, faiths, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We actively oppose racism, discrimination, ableism, stigma, and oppression.
The Communication Studio is a proudly neurodivergent affirming practice. We focus on strengths, provide a non-judgemental support for challenges, and prioritise long term wellbeing. We strive to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone is welcome and respected.