Expressive Language Therapy in Perth

Wht is Expressive Language Difficulty?

Expressive language refers to how we use words and sentences to share ideas—for example, naming, describing, asking questions, telling stories, and explaining what happened.

Some people experience expressive language difficulties, which can include challenges with:

• Vocabulary (finding and using words)

• Grammar and sentence structure

• Organising ideas into clear messages

• Storytelling and sequencing

• Using language effectively in conversation

Expressive language difficulties can occur in:

• Children (as part of a developmental language profile), and

• Adults (often as an acquired language disorder such as aphasia following stroke or brain injury).

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our speech pathologists assess expressive language needs and provide tailored therapy to support clearer, more confident communication in everyday settings.

Signs of Expressive Language Difficulties

Expressive language difficulties can look different depending on age and context. Common signs may include:

• Difficulty forming complete sentences or using age-appropriate grammar

• Limited vocabulary or difficulty finding words (word-finding)

• Using incorrect word order (syntax)

• Difficulty telling a story or retelling events in a logical sequence

• Trouble asking questions or using pronouns accurately

• Giving short or vague answers (e.g., “thing”, “that one”)

• Avoiding speaking in groups due to frustration or reduced confidence

Expressive difficulties can occur on their own or alongside receptive language or social communication differences. Assessment helps identify the full profile.

What Can Cause Expressive Language Difficulties?

Expressive language challenges can have different causes depending on whether they are developmental or acquired.

In children (developmental)

Expressive language difficulties may occur as part of:

• Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) or broader language delay

• Neurodevelopmental differences (e.g., autism) where language and communication develop differently

• Learning and attention differences that can affect language use and organisation

• Hearing history (e.g., fluctuating hearing with middle ear infections) or hearing loss

• Family history of speech/language difficulties

In adults (acquired)

Expressive language difficulties often occur due to:

• Stroke (aphasia)

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

• Other neurological conditions that impact language or cognitive-communication skills

Where appropriate, we coordinate with medical teams and other allied health professionals to ensure the right pathway of care.

Expressive vs Receptive Language

It can help to understand the difference:

• Expressive language: using words and sentences to communicate ideas

• Receptive language: understanding what others say (instructions, questions, concepts)

Many people have a mixed profile, where both expressive and receptive language are affected. Therapy planning is based on assessment findings and functional goals.

How Speech Pathology Can Help

Therapy is individualised and practical, focused on real-life communication. Depending on needs, support may include:

Vocabulary and Word-Finding

• Building vocabulary for everyday topics

• Strategies for word-finding (e.g., describing, categorising, cueing techniques)

Sentence and Grammar Development

• Supporting sentence length and complexity

• Targeting grammar patterns relevant to age and functional communication

Storytelling, Sequencing, and Organisation

• Helping clients organise ideas clearly

• Retelling events and explaining concepts in a logical order

Conversation and Social Language

• Using language to initiate, maintain, and repair conversations

• Building confidence communicating with peers, family, and teachers

Visual Supports and AAC (When Helpful)

• Using visuals, written supports, or structured prompts to support expression

• Introducing AAC supports when they improve functional communication (as a bridge or longer-term support depending on needs)

Parent/Caregiver Involvement

For children, therapy outcomes are strongest when families are supported with practical strategies for daily routines, play, and reading.

Why Early Support Matters (Children)

Early support can help children:

• Build language foundations for learning and relationships

• Reduce frustration and improve participation

• Develop confidence communicating at childcare and school

Progress varies between children, but early, consistent support can make a meaningful difference.

Expressive Language Therapy for Adults

Adults may experience expressive language difficulties after stroke or brain injury (often as aphasia) or alongside cognitive-communication changes. Therapy may focus on:

• Functional communication goals (home, community, work)

• Word-finding and sentence formulation strategies

• Conversation practice and communication repair techniques

• Partner training for family members to support successful communication

• AAC supports where needed to maintain participation

Supporting Families and Communication Partners

Communication support goes beyond the therapy room. We provide:

• Individualised home practice activities and strategies

• Parent/caregiver coaching and partner communication strategies

• Collaboration with schools or workplaces (with consent) to support communication in everyday environments

• Regular reviews to adjust goals and supports as needs change
  
  

Access Expressive Language Support in Malaga

If you’re looking for expressive language assessment and therapy in Malaga, our speech pathology team can help with practical, goal-based support to improve everyday communication and participation.