Helen Sjardin, Speech Pathologist and Voice Therapist welcomes you to Communicating Freely:
After working for many years with a focus on freeing communication for people who feel ‘trapped’ ‘unheard’, ‘misunderstood’ or unable to express themselves easily, I bring to each interaction expertise, enthusiasm and encouragement. My approach is based on diverse experience in medical and educational settings with pursuit of additional training in holistic and creative techniques.
As a participant in Speech Pathology Australia’s Certified Practising Speech Pathologists Program, I have a commitment to regular updating of knowledge with participation in professional development and student teaching.
Because of the intense, personal and unique nature of each person’s program, most of my work is with individuals, although I do offer some small group work.
DO MY AREAS OF SPECIALTY MATCH YOUR NEEDS? 
Voice
If you have experienced changes in or are unhappy with the quality, pitch, range or volume of your speaking or singing voice, or if you feel persistent discomfort in your throat when you speak, I can offer assessment and advice. This may need to include a consultation with an ENT specialist- Adult Neurological Disorders
Events such as stroke, head injury or neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease can produce changes in your speech clarity, voice quality, swallowing, or ability to find the right word to express yourself. This is an area in which I have specialised, and can devise an individual program suited to your needs. Where necessary, if there is a problem with mobility, I offer home or hospital visits.I have recently attained Certification for working with Vital Stim. - Accent Modification
With an interest in accent and bilingualism, I have developed resources for modification of pronunciation. If you find that people are not understanding you, despite a good command of English, we can analyse the significant patterns and work on accent modification, maintaining your individuality. People who have benefited from this in the past are professionals who have underachieved because of difficulty being understood or their problem understanding the Australian accent. Some actors who have their own strong regional dialect or accent have also sought assistance in this area, to be competitive for roles in Australia. - Building confidence in speaking
Many people seek assistance when their life goals begin to demand more speaking to groups, in meetings or public presentations or on the phone. This can apply to as diverse a group as university lecturers, media presenters or adolescents accused of mumbling. My background in phonology, voice therapy and public speaking equip me to work with people with these concerns, identifying problems and offering techniques to improve communication.
