Improves, allowing people to project their speech in real-world environments.
Speech therapy for Parkinson's
At AccentU Speech Pathology, we provide evidence-based speech therapy for people living with Parkinson’s disease at our Canberra clinic, and across Australia via Telehealth.
We help people with Parkinson’s regain and retain their voice so they can be heard.
VOICE TRAINING
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Speak at a comfortable, clear and consistent volume.
Bron Conroy, Speech Pathologist has completed training and certification in the internationally recognised SPEAK OUT!® Parkinson Voice Project program, in addition to advanced postgraduate education in Parkinson’s disease via the University of Tasmania Dementia Research and Education Centre.
Parkinson's can affect much more than movement
People living with Parkinson’s disease commonly experience Hypokinetic Dysarthria. Some of the signs are:
- A quieter voice
- Reduced speech clarity
- Monotone speech
- Difficulty speaking in noisy environments
- Changes to swallowing
- People asking you to repeat yourself
- Mumbling or slurred speech
- Running out of breath when speaking
- Less facial expressions
- Lack of confidence participating in conversations
Research suggests that speech and voice changes eventually affect 90% of people living with Parkinson’s disease. Early intervention can help maintain communication skills and independence.
SPEAK OUT! program combines
- Individual speech therapy sessions
- Personalised home practice
- Voice exercises
- Cognitive-linguistic activities
- Ongoing maintenance strategies
Research has found participants improve
- Voice volume
- Speech clarity
- Confidence communicating
- Swallowing function
- Participation in daily activities
The emphasis is not simply on speaking louder, but on communicating with purpose and intention in real-world situations.
SPEAK OUT!® Therapy
Developed by Parkinson Voice Project, SPEAK OUT! Therapy helps people with Parkinson’s and related disorders REGAIN and RETAIN their speech and swallowing. This highly effective, research-based treatment combines education, individual and group speech therapy, and daily home practice with INTENT.
Research and outcomes
Research and clinical outcomes confirm the effectiveness of SPEAK OUT! Therapy for addressing hypokinetic dysarthria.
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Vocal volume and intonation
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Social participation grows
Participants REGAIN the confidence to engage in conversations and activities.
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Long-term retention
Supported through SPEAK OUT! Classes and Refreshers, which keep motivation and progress strong. Real-world stories from graduates show how restored communication strengthens speech, emotional well-being and family relationships.
Telehealth Parkinson's speech therapy
Many people with Parkinson’s find Telehealth highly convenient. Online therapy allows you to:
- Access specialist care from home
- Reduce travel fatigue
- Continue therapy during periods of illness
- Include family members or care partners
- Access services Australia-wide
Bron has experience delivering effective online speech pathology services to adults across Australia.
What to expect
Initial assessment
Your assessment may include:
- Voice evaluation
- Speech intelligibility assessment
- Communication participation measures
- Swallowing screening where appropriate
- Goal setting
- Individualised therapy planning
Individual therapy program
Treatment is tailored to your needs and may include:
- SPEAK OUT!® exercises
- Voice strengthening
- Breath support strategies
- Speech clarity training
- Conversation practice
- Communication partner training
- Swallowing support and recommendations
Ongoing maintenance
Parkinson’s disease is progressive, making long-term support important. We help clients develop practical strategies to maintain gains and continue using their voice confidently in everyday situations through a maintenance program.
Supporting families and care partners
Parkinson’s affects communication for the entire family. We work collaboratively with spouses, family members and support people to provide practical communication strategies that improve participation and reduce frustration for everyone involved.
Research suggests that speech and voice changes eventually affect 90% of people living with Parkinson’s disease. Early intervention can help maintain communication skills and independence.
Learn more about Parkinson's voice
SPEAK OUT! vs LSVT LOUD
Hypo kinetic arthritis commonly causes a quiet, monotone, or breathy voice in individuals with …
Treatment benefits
How often do you find you are speaking at what feels like a perfectly normal volume, yet…
Hypokinetic dysarthria
The specific type of speech impairment associated with Parkinson’s disease is called …
Can speech therapy help Parkinson’s?
Yes, speech therapy is highly effective for Parkinson’s disease. Clinical research …
Questions & answers
Does speech therapy help Parkinson's disease?
Yes. Speech therapy is one of the most effective interventions for managing communication changes associated with Parkinson’s disease. Specific programs such as SPEAK OUT!® are designed to address reduced vocal loudness, speech clarity and swallowing concerns.
When should I start speech therapy?
The earlier therapy begins, the better. Many people benefit from establishing strong communication habits soon after diagnosis.
Can speech therapy be delivered online?
Absolutely. Telehealth speech therapy can be highly effective for many people living with Parkinson’s disease and allows access to specialised services regardless of location.
Do you work with people outside Canberra?
Yes. We provide online Parkinson’s speech therapy services Australia-wide.
Take the first step
If Parkinson’s is affecting your speech, voice, communication or swallowing, support is available. Contact AccentU Speech Pathology to discuss how specialist Parkinson’s speech therapy can help you maintain your voice, confidence and connection with others.