Speech, language, and communication experts

Neurodivergent-affirming speech and language therapists

Talking Lab therapists are committed to neurodivergent-affirming practice. We appreciate that neurodivergence (such as autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities) are not flaws that need to be ‘fixed’ or corrected. We take a neurodivergent-affirming approach, meaning that we support a neurodivergent individual’s ability to express their choices, views, and emotions to improve their quality of life. As speech and language therapists, we understand the importance of language and appreciate that words hold meaning. Therefore, we use neurodivergent-affirming and identify-first language i.e., “Autistic person” rather than Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). We capitalise the word Autistic to represent the importance and identity of an Autistic person.

We offer speech and language therapy assessments and support for children and young people aged 0-25. We specialise in enriching communication environments to ensure you have all the skills and tools you need to support your child’s speech and language skills. Flexible appointments available.

“Do you offer direct therapy?”

Yes! However, by taking an environmental approach we aim to directly empower the adults to implement communication strategies in all their interactions with the child which results in much faster progress and longer lasting outcomes and results.

We do not offer ongoing direct therapy sessions with the child, without an adult present. Direct speech and language therapy is often defined as a therapist working directly with a child on a 1:1 basis to target specific communication outcomes. In our experience, this form of therapy has a negative impact on a child’s self-esteem, is likely to result in slow progress over time, does not generalise communication skills outside of the therapy sessions, and offers poor value for money.

There is nothing that we can do with your child that we can’t show you how to do. You are your child’s expert. You can do this!

We Specialise In

Delayed Language

Stammering

Disordered Speech

Situational (Selective) Mutism

Autism and Developmental Conditions

Training and Professional Development

Meet the therapists

  • Lucy Darby

    Speech and Language Therapist

    Lucy qualified as a speech and language therapist in 2015 and has experience working with children in both health and education sections, in the UK and overseas in New Zealand..

  • Sophie Bradshaw

    Speech and Language Therapist

    Sophie qualified as a speech and language therapist in 2023 and has experience working with children and adults with learning disabilities…

Testimonials