Speech Pathologist
Full time or part time – Starting February Geelong
First Step Support Services
Ready to do your best work in a team that genuinely gets it?
First Step Support Services is a neuroaffirming allied health and support work service where Autistic people, ADHD'ers, PDA'ers, and folks with psychosocial disability are supported with respect, authenticity, and a good dose of humour.
We're expanding our dream team in 2026 and looking for a Speech Pathologist who is passionate, playful, values lived experience, and wants a workplace where they can actually breathe.
Why First Step feels different
* A neuroaffirming approach is built into everything we do.
We don't do compliance for the sake of compliance. We do meaningful therapy. We honour autonomy, curiosity, and joy.
* You get time to do your job properly.
No impossible KPIs, no rushed reports, no guilt for blocking out admin time.
* You'll be supported by leadership that actually leads.
Our Operations Coordinator (Teah), & Director (Shay) keep things organised so you can focus on being a brilliant clinician.
* You get a manageable, intentionally built caseload.
We match you with participants you're aligned with. No burnout bait, no chaos dumps.
* We celebrate wins, laugh a lot, and communicate openly.
Slack is our home base. Expect memes, support, and the occasional dog photo.
* A workplace where being yourself is an asset.
Neurodivergent clinicians strongly encouraged to apply. Being authentic is part of the job description.
What the role looks like
You'll support autistic kids, teens, and adults through therapy that is affirming, collaborative, and functional. This might include:
* Communication goals that centre autonomy and identity
* Literacy, AAC, and multimodal communication
* Social communication support that isn't cringe or masking focused
* Feeding therapy (only if you enjoy it – we don't force niches)
* Parent and caregiver coaching
* Writing reports that are actually useful and that you won't have to do alone because we have humans who love systems & all things tech
* Optional: supervise therapy assistants or help shape new group programs
Perks that don't suck
* 8 weeks of Annual Leave every year
* $135,900 - $164,700 p.a, pro rata + super
* Flexible days & hours because you're a human being
* Choose your admin times (we build it with you)
* Paid PD every year plus access to neuroaffirming, PDA specific, and AAC focused training
* Admin support that actually reduces admin
* A CEO who loves innovation and memes in equal measure
* Genuinely supportive team culture that people rave about
* Access to 150+ free PD courses throughout the year
* EAP program with 5 free sessions with a psychologist each year
* iPad, Printer, Phone, Assessments, a resource budget.... hello Kmart
You'll be perfect for this role if you:
* Are a Speech Pathologist with SPA membership (or eligible to apply)
* Love neuroaffirming, trauma informed practice
* Want a workplace that listens, adapts, and values your ideas
* Enjoy collaboration, reflection, and trying new things
* Can bring your own flavour, humour, and authenticity
* Want to grow professionally without sacrificing your wellbeing