Our Story
Spark Allied Health was created from the desire to offer therapy that feels different - more connected, more flexible, and truly centred around each child.
Through working with children and families, it became clear that the most meaningful progress doesn’t come from rigid programs, but from relationships. From feeling safe, understood and supported. From those small, often quiet moments where something just clicks - a spark.
Spark Allied Health was built around those moments. Our approach is neuroaffirming, play-based, and guided by each child’s individual strengths, interests and needs. We aim to create sessions where children grow in their own way at their own pace.
Meet the Founder
Sophie O’Leary - Speech Pathologist
I’m a paediatric speech pathologist with experience supporting children and young people to develop their communication skills, confidence, and connection with the world around them.
I'm passionate about supporting children and their families through a neuro-affirming, play-based approach that prioritises connection, regulation, and meaningful progress. I believe that the most important part of therapy is building strong, trusting relationships—because when children feel safe, understood, and valued, they’re able to truly engage, learn, and grow.
I enjoy working closely with families to create therapy that feels natural, supportive, and tailored to each child’s unique strengths, interests, and goals. Whether we're building early communication skills, supporting speech and language development, exploring AAC, or developing literacy and social communication skills, my focus is always on helping children thrive in ways that feel meaningful to them.
Outside of work, you'll likely find me at a local café drinking too much coffee, spending time by the beach, getting creative, or buying more books instead of reading the ones I already own!
As a small, family-centred practice, you'll work directly with me from your very first enquiry through to assessment, therapy, and ongoing support. My goal is to create a welcoming space where children and families feel supported, understood, and confident as we navigate their communication journey together.
Our Core Values
Connection comes first
1
Strong relationships are the foundation of communication. We prioritise trust, safety, and genuine connection before anything else.
2
Neuro-affirming practice
We celebrate all ways of communicating and support children to develop skills without changing who they are.
Learning through play
3
Children learn best when they feel safe, engaged, and are having fun. Therapy is built around play, interests and functional, real-life experiences.
Family-centred support
4
Families are the expert in their children. We work collaboratively with caregivers to create strategies that fit into everyday life.
Growth takes time
5
We value progress over perfection and celebrate the small, meaningful steps along the way.