Meet Steph – Rocky Bay Neuro/Rehab Speech Pathologist

Speech Pathology Week, held from 23 to 29 August, recognises and promotes the work done by speech pathologists with individuals who live with a communication disability.

Speech Pathologists diagnose and treat communication disorders, such as difficulties with speaking, listening, understanding language, reading and writing, social skills and work with individuals who experience difficulties with swallowing food and drink safely.

Rocky Bay’s Neuro/Rehab Speech Pathologist, Steph Hogg, has been with Rocky Bay for over four years, supporting customers who live with a range of neurological conditions including stroke, traumatic brain injury and Parkinson’s disease.

We had a chat with Steph about her role and what it involves, read our Q&A below to find out more!

Q&A WITH STEPH

Describe a typical day as a Rocky Bay speech pathologist?

I absolutely love being a part of my team, as well as being part of the wider Rocky Bay team. My typical day involves face-to-face sessions with customers, helping them in their rehab journey by working toward goals that are meaningful to them.

I work mostly on their communication and swallowing abilities, but I would need a whole essay to describe how diverse this can be! I am passionate about helping people get back to doing the things they love. It can be such an incredible and emotional journey for them, and I want to do the absolute best I can for our amazing rehab customers.

Tell us more about your experience?

Prior to working as a speechie at Rocky Bay, I volunteered here as a therapy assistant for a couple of months. While I was at university I worked as a developmental therapist for children with autism spectrum disorder at The Charles Street Clinic. I graduated from Curtin University with a Bachelor of Science (Speech Pathology), then started at Rocky Bay as a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed new graduate.

In my first few years at Rocky Bay I worked as a generalist (so with a range of disabilities, such as autism, intellectual disability, etc.), which gave me lots of diverse experience. I then had the opportunity to refine my skills in my particular area of interest with the lovely neuro/rehab team.

What do you love most about your role?

The customers – they are wonderful. I can’t tell you how many times a day I say ‘that’s my favourite customer’. I also love the team I work with – that really matters. They are so supportive, knowledgeable, and fun.

What do you love to do in your free time?

I love going to the gym, running, surfing, diving, and being anywhere near the ocean. In summer I am happy – give me 30 to 40 degrees please. I spend a lot of time with my friends and family.

When I’m not doing any of the above, you can find me cuddled up in front of the TV like the true introvert I am. When on holiday, I love exploring this beautiful world we live in. My favourite place to travel in WA is Exmouth and Coral Bay.

What are three things you can’t live without and why?

1. Friends and family
2. Exercise
3. Good food and wine

Click here to find out more about Rocky Bay’s speech pathology services, or call our friendly team on 08 6282 1900 for a chat.