Joanne Whiteoak

|Speech Pathologist, BSpPath, MSPA-CPSP|



Highly experienced Speech Pathologist based in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, specialising in adults living with acquired neurological conditions. Servicing private clients, NDIS, My Aged Care, TAC and Work Cover clients, providing home-based and telehealth services.

joanne-2-li1.webp

Areas of Expertise

Dysphagia | Adult Rehabilitation | Neurodegenerative conditions | Voice therapy



With over 30 years of experience as a dedicated Speech Pathologist, Joanne Whiteoak specialises in supporting adults living with acquired neurological conditions. Her career spans Australia and the UK, where she has provided expert care to individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, neurosurgery, and those living with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease and Dementia

Joanne offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the needs of adults with complex communication, cognitive, and swallowing challenges. Services include:

Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties):

  • Diagnosing and managing dysphagia

  • Diet/fluid modifications and safe swallowing strategies

  • mealtime management plans

  • education and support for families and health professionals

Adult rehabilitation post-stroke, traumatic brain injury or neurosurgery:

  • Tailored therapy for aphasia, dysarthria, apraxia of speech, and cognitive-communication disorders

  • Customised therapy plans based on vocational, social and lifestyle goals

Support for neurodegenerative conditions:

  • Support for client's presenting with Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Motor Neurone Disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.

  • LSVT LOUD certified

Voice therapy for ENT-related conditions:

  • Muscle tension dysphonia, vocal nodules, and age-related voice changes

  • Therapy to improve vocal quality, endurance, and reduce strain

Funding and Service Options

Joanne supports clients through a variety of funding models, including:

  1. NDIS - for communication, swallowing, voice and cognitive communication therapy and goal-focused plans

  2. My Aged Care, TAC and WorkCover - speech therapy for older adults and rehabilitation post-injury

  3. Private clients - accessible services without the need for external referrals

Joanne can assist clients through both home-based and telehealth services.

Home-based speech pathology

Home-based therapy is designed for individuals who prefer the comfort and convenience of therapy at home. Whether due to mobility challenges, health conditions, or simply personal preference, home-based speech pathology offers an ideal solution. We provide personalised therapy sessions for a variety of conditions, ensuring you receive expert care in the comfort of your own home. We offer:

  • Initial assessment: a thorough evaluation of your needs and goals

  • Tailored therapy plans: focused on speech, swallowing, or cognitive goals

  • In-home strategies: practical tools and tips to integrate therapy into daily life

  • Family involvement: sessions can include family members for added support

Based in Box Hill, Joanne mostly services home-based clients in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne.

Telehealth speech pathology services

Telehealth allows clients to access expert speech therapy without leaving home. Whether due to health, mobility, location, or scheduling challenges, telehealth provides a number of advantages to clients:

  • Flexible, real-time therapy from the comfort of your own space

  • Ideal for clients with communication, swallowing, or cognitive challenges

  • Family or carers can join remotely to support therapy goals

Contact Joanne to discuss the service offering that suits you best.

About My Process



Joanne is deeply committed to evidence-based practice and delivering functional, goal-oriented therapy. Every session is tailored to meet individual needs and life goals, whether that means returning to work, study, or improving daily communication and swallowing safety.

photo-1701456143180-28bf8b6571cf

Contact Me

If you or a loved one could benefit from expert speech pathology services, we'd love to hear from you. Please contact us to learn more about how we can support your journey to improved communication, swallowing, and cognitive health.

Email jwhiteoaksppath@gmail.com

Phone 0410 138 179

Address Box Hill, Victoria