NK Speech Therapy in Northmead has become synonymous with helping children and adults communicate with confidence.

Whether it is the mispronunciation of words, stuttering, or difficulty communicating thoughts, this practice has, to date, dedicated more than 500 000 sessions to changing the lives of those in need of therapy.

As a registered member of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), speech therapist, audiologist and director, Nabeelah Kathrada is dedicated to meeting her patients where needed.

“We regularly meet parents and educators who have concerns about a child’s speech or language development but feel unsure about what to do next,” she said.

“In many cases, the challenge is not a lack of care, but limited access. Formal screenings and assessments are often costly, waiting lists are long, and for many, early support feels out of reach.”

To make speech therapy accessible to all, the practitioner recently launched a free online speech and language screening tool on a dedicated website.

“She created this initiative to serve as a gentle first step for parents, caregivers, and teachers, who may be worried about a child’s communication development but are unable to access private screening services,” said Kathrada.

“The tool is not diagnostic and does not replace professional assessment. It is purpose-developed to provide guidance, reassurance and clarity, helping caregivers understand whether further support may be recommended, without cost, referrals, or medical aid requirements.”

Kathrada hopes this tool will empower families and schools to identify concerns early, particularly within under-resourced communities where underlying issues are often identified too late.

“Speech and language development is a cornerstone of childhood development and can have a tremendous impact on a child’s educational and social outcomes. This tool can have a meaningful impact on their lives,” she said.

For more information, go to www.nkspeechandaudion.co.za and click on the free online screening tool.

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