From Therapy Assistant to Speech Pathologist: Caitlin’s story

Caitlin Hetebry has worn a few different hats at Therapy Focus — therapy assistant, graduate, Speech Pathologist. Over three years in, she’s right where she belongs. 

Caitlin’s journey to becoming a Speech Pathologist started earlier than most as a therapy assistant working alongside a large team at the Mirrabooka office. 

By the time she graduated and stepped into her Speech Pathologist role, she already knew the culture. What surprised her was just how much it still felt like a warm welcome.

A multi-disciplinary world from day one 

Caitlin’s decision to join Therapy Focus wasn’t accidental. Working as a therapy assistant gave her a front-row seat to something she found genuinely compelling, the way different disciplines collaborate under one roof. 

“I got to see the multi-disciplinary side of things early on,” she says. “I was really looking for a supportive environment, with a big team, and lots of other speechies around that I could ask for help. That was Maddington.”  

When she transitioned into her graduate role as a Speech Pathologist, that multi-disciplinary environment became even more valuable. Having colleagues across speech pathology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, dietetics and more means support is never far away and learning never really stops. 

You’re not doing it alone 

One of the first things Caitlin noticed was the people. 

“I’ve made a few really good friendships within the team. There was a new grad OT who I started with, and so we ended up having a lot of shared clients together. It was really nice to lean on her for her OT support, and I was able to grow my speech skills by sharing my knowledge with her, with our shared clients.” 

That sense of mutual support is built into the culture. There’s always plenty of laughter, often over shared lunches at the base. 

“I was genuinely surprised by how supportive everyone was. It’s always respectful and understanding if someone needs extra support with someone. And I find that balance is really important for maintaining that respect and creating genuine friendships within the team.”

The moment that stays with her 

Caitlin was supporting a client to find a communication device that worked for them. The Dad was hesitant, a bit unsure about why Caitlin was trying to use an AAC device with his son.

“We kept at it. A few months later, he said to me in a session — I understand why you’re doing that now. I didn’t know the device could do that. It’s those small wins. That’s what this is for.”

It’s a reminder of what the work is really about. Not just the therapy itself, but the trust built with families over time. Getting to know people, celebrating the milestones alongside them, Caitlin describes these as some of the most rewarding parts of her role and moments you don’t forget.