hearing and communication specialists
Our Hearing and Communication Specialists (HCS) / Teachers of the Deaf are highly qualified educators with advanced university training in supporting deaf and hard of hearing children and adults. They are dedicated to empowering individuals and their communities by providing tailored strategies and supports to ensure equal and inclusive access to learning, working, and playing in all environments. While the HCS shares some skills with Speech Pathologists, their expertise offers unique benefits. Please reach out to learn more about how we can best support you or your child.
what we help with
Supporting understanding of hearing loss, specific to the individual’s audiogram and experiences.
Supporting device management e.g. hearing aids, Baha, cochlear implants as well as other assistive technology e.g transmitters, sound field systems.
Exploring communication options, including listening and spoken language, Auslan, bimodal/bilingual approaches, and/or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
Developing receptive and expressive communication skills.
Supporting literacy and other academic development.
Advocating for optimal listening and communication access in various settings.
Fostering self-determination, advocacy, identity, and success in social, work or education settings.
Promoting social and emotional wellbeing.
Enhancing community access and inclusion.
*Please note our Hearing and Communication Specialists do not conduct audiology testing.
our approach
Our Hearing and Communication Specialists work in a person- and family-centred, strengths-based manner. We provide tailored support for each individual and family, empowering them to:
- Gain a full understanding of all communication options.
- Develop skills that meet their specific needs and preferences.
- Build understanding and confidence in managing hearing loss and accessing communication opportunities.
- Grow their own awareness, identity and self-determination.
Your HCS will work with the whole team around the individual and their family. This may include the audiologist, cochlear implant clinic, paediatricians, ENT, and other specialists. Regular team meetings and communication with other members of the therapy team is also an ongoing best practice, e.g. Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists etc. as well as educators in an early childhood or school settings.
service options
Sessions in our clinic hubs
Telepractice (online sessions)
Group therapy (termly and holiday programs)
Home visits
School, kindergarten and childcare visits
how we work
Listening and Learning
We start by understanding your needs, priorities, and goals.
Exploring Options
We provide information and support to develop a plan and help you choose communication and therapy approaches that work for you.
Collaborating
We work closely with your family, educators, and healthcare team to ensure everyone is aligned.
Implementing and Supporting
We deliver individualised therapy and advocacy tailored to your situation.
Ongoing Communication
Regular updates, team meetings, and check-ins to ensure the plan continues to meet your needs.
Evaluating and Adapting
We continually assess progress and adjust strategies to meet evolving needs.
Celebrating Progress
Celebrate milestones and achievements, adjusting support as required.
accessing hearing and communication specialist services
HCS supports can be funded by the NDIS under Developmental Educator. Clients can also choose to pay out of pocket.
THRIVE
Thrive is a support stream at Peninsula Plus that you might be offered, or choose to access, whilst waiting for other services or when you are experiencing an overwhelming period in your/family's life. It is a capacity building support provided to help with:
- Advocating effectively for your child and accessing other potential supports
- Sustaining your efforts and preventing carer burnout
- Connecting you with other parents and carers to reduce isolation, if needed
- Experiencing joy and fun as a family and celebrating your child's strengths