Speech and

Language

Therapy

We are passionate about supporting people to communicate to the best of their ability, in order to maximise their participation in life.

We are a small team of Kent-based Speech and Language Therapists. We have Speech and Language Therapists based in Maidstone, Medway and Swale.

We are experienced, compassionate and our practice is underpinned by the current evidence base.

Appointments are available online, at a clinic in Maidstone, or via a visit to your home in Kent.

Kezia is a Speech and Language Therapist and Communication Coach and the Founder of TalkCoach

OUR APPROACH

We collaborate with you

Our therapy process is a collaborative partnership. We work closely with you to understand your unique communication needs and goals, ensuring your input guides every step of the way.

We focus on what matters

Our therapy always has a clear focus on helping you achieve meaningful goals that are aligned with your personal values. We focus on goals that will make a positive difference to your life - whether that’s delivering a wedding speech or connecting with loved ones.

We embrace individuality

We celebrate and respect your unique way of communicating, even if that doesn’t fit the ‘neurotypical norm’. We support you in embracing your identity, building on strengths and developing strategies to manage communication challenges. We are actively against making you communicate in a way that doesn’t feel like you!

WHO DO WE WORK WITH?

We work with a wide range of symptoms and conditions that affect communication and swallowing.

We also help you with any emotional or psychological factors, such as anxiety, that may be causing or exacerbating your symptoms.

Here’s an overview of the conditions and symptoms we can help you with:

Language symptoms

Language disorders include word finding difficulties and challenges in understanding what others say.

There is often a neurological cause - in other words, a change in the structure and function of the brain. This may be due to a stroke, acquired brain injury, brain tumour or dementia.

Language symptoms we work with include:

  • Aphasia is an acquired language disorder, which can cause difficulties speaking, understanding, reading and writing.

  • Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a form of dementia, characterised by a gradual decline in language abilities.

Cognition and executive function

Cognition and executive function challenges affect thinking skills essential for communication, such as memory, attention, planning and problem-solving.

Causes include

  • Neurological conditions, such as acquired brain injury (ABI)

  • Neurodiversity, such as autism and ADHD

  • Cognitive Communication Disorder (CCD) involves communication difficulties stemming from impaired cognition as a result of brain damage.

    Read our blog about the more subtle/higher level cognitive and communication deficits following a brain injury and how Speech and Language Therapy and Coaching can help.

  • We also help with executive function challenges that may impact your communication, which may be related to neurodivergence (for example, autism or ADHD).

    ‘Neurodiversity’ is a term used to describe a brain that works differently - encompassing diagnoses like autism, ADHD and dyspraxia. Many of the conditions already listed on this page also fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity (i.e. stammering, cluttering, traumatic brain injury).

    Being neurodivergent can make communication more difficult. This can be, for example, due to challenges with executive functioning, cognition or feeling anxious about communicating in a world that isn’t designed for a neurodivergent brain.

    Our approach is neurodiversity-affirming - in other words, we don’t consider a neurodivergent brain as being ‘broken’ and in need of being ‘fixed’. Instead, we focus on helping you understand and embrace your communication style, introduce strategies to help you communicate in a way that feels authentic, and support you to develop the confidence and skills to advocate for your individual needs.

Speech symptoms

Speech symptoms involve differences in the physical production of speech sounds.

These may have a neurological cause such as stroke, brain injury, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) or progressive neurological conditions.

  • Dysarthria is the medical term for slurred or slow speech.

    It is caused by weakness or reduced control of the muscles involved in speaking.

    Symptoms may include slurring, slow speech, difficulty projecting the voice, a monotone voice or a nasal sounding voice.

  • Verbal dyspraxia, also known as Apraxia of Speech (AOS) is a motor speech disorder caused by a difficulty planning and coordinating the muscle movements required for speech.

    Symptoms include inconsistent speech errors, difficulty and pronouncing words correctly and a high level of effort required to produce speech.

    In severe cases, it can cause difficulty producing any meaningful speech output.

We also work with people who want to improve the clarity, accuracy or fluency of their speech, which may not be related to a neurological condition:

  • Stammering affects the fluency, or flow, of a person's speech.

    Someone who stammers may repeat sounds, syllables, or words. They may stretch or prolong sounds. They may experience silent blocks where a sound gets stuck.

    This is different to the occasional repetition that anybody can experience.

    Stammering can often accompanied by physical tension and anxiety.

    It is typically referred to as 'stammering' in the UK.

  • Cluttering is another speech condition that impacts fluency and clarity.

    Someone who clutters may speak very fast, or at an 'irregular' speech rate, with atypical pauses. They may also omit syllables. Their communication can sound 'disorganised' with a difficulty organising thoughts or 'getting to the point'.

    This results in speech that is difficult to understand.

    The speaker often has reduced awareness of these symptoms.

    Cluttering often occurs alongside ADHD.

  • An articulation difficulty, such as a lisp, is a speech disorder where individuals have trouble pronouncing specific sounds correctly.

Voice, throat and swallowing symptoms

Voice and ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) may be caused by physical/structural changes in the vocal tract, such as vocal nodules, changes following head and neck surgery (such as ACDF) or treatment for head and neck cancer.

Voice and throat symptoms can also have a ‘functional’ cause - for example, caused by muscle tension or acid reflux.

  • A voice disorder, also known as 'dysphonia', is often characterised by a hoarse, weak, rough, breathy or strained voice.

    It is caused by impaired vibration of the vocal cords.

  • 'Globus' is the feeling of a lump in the throat. It can feel like a tightness or pressure in the throat and is often associated with mucus that is hard to clear.

    Globus is often caused by increased muscle tension or reflux. It often worsens with stress and anxiety.

  • We can also help with a chronic cough or chronic throat clearing.

    This may or may not be associated with vocal hoarseness, reflux and globus sensation.

We also work with swallowing difficulties (also known as ‘dysphagia’):

  • Eating and drinking are important social activities. Food and drink provide a lot of pleasure and the ability to eat and drink is often taken for granted.

    Swallowing difficulties result from a wide range of conditions including neurological conditions, cancer, respiratory disorders, head and neck surgery, acid reflux and psychogenic/functional causes.

Symptoms related to anxiety and/or reduced confidence

Any communication or swallowing impairment has the possibility to increase anxiety and stress. Communication and swallowing difficulties can be incredibly stressful to live with and have a huge impact on your quality of life.

A key aspect of our services includes supporting you to improve your wellbeing and confidence and reduce stress and anxiety, alongside helping with your symptoms.

We also work with conditions that can have anxiety and other psychological factors as the cause. For example:

  • An anxiety disorder where a person is unable to speak in certain situations, despite being able to speak normally in other settings.

  • Social anxiety is characterised by an intense fear of social interactions and situations where one might be judged by others.

    This often leads to avoidance of social situations, which can significantly impact communication, confidence, and connection with others.


Not sure if your communication difficulty falls into these areas?

You may feel held back by your communication, yet you’re unsure if you have any specific speech or language difficulties.

Maybe in social contexts you panic when it’s your turn to speak, your mind goes blank or you stumble over your words.

You may benefit from Communication Coaching or a bespoke package involving a blend of both services.

To see our full list of services, prices and to request an appointment, please download our Services and Pricing Guide.

Ready to work with us?

MEET OUR SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPISTS

Please note, our Associate SLTs are fully licensed, experienced Speech and Language Therapists, and the title “Associate” simply reflects their position within TalkCoach. Each therapist brings their own strengths and specialisations and is dedicated to providing a high standard of client-centred care.

Kezia is a Speech and Language Therapist and Communication Coach and the Founder of TalkCoach

Kezia Lawson
Company Director/Lead SLT

Primary clinical interests:
Stammering; cluttering; selective mutism; social anxiety; functional neurological disorder (FND); cognitive-communication disorder; autism, ADHD.

Louise C is an Associate Speech and Language Therapist at TalkCoach.

Louise Callaway
Associate SLT

Primary clinical interests:
Communication and swallowing difficulties related to neurological conditions (i.e. stroke, brain injury, progressive neurological conditions).

Louise J is an Associate Speech and Language Therapist at TalkCoach.

Louise Jamieson
Associate SLT

Primary clinical interests:
Voice/ENT disorders; communication and swallowing difficulties related to stroke, brain injury; FND and head and neck cancer.

Chloe Hastings
Associate SLT

Primary clinical interests:
Communication challenges related to stammering, neurodivergence (i.e. autism, ADHD), deafness/Deafness.

CLIENT FEEDBACK

Read what previous clients have said about working with TalkCoach.

  • Louise C.

    Working with Kezia on all aspects of communication really has improved my overall quality of life.

    I have not only been able to address current communication struggles and improve significantly but Kezia has also helped me to learn different strategies to aid me in every day life.

    In addition to this she is also very professional, kind and understanding which have all helped to reduce my anxiety around working with people that I have not met before.

    Thank you so much for all of your help Kezia.

  • Marilyn T. - client’s partner

    Harry lost his ability to speak after a stroke. He has made significant progress with Kezia’s highly skilled input.

    Kezia took time to get to know Harry, to learn what was most important to him, and to tailor the sessions to meet his goals and aspirations, especially around his love of music.

    Kezia's approach is truly person centred, empathic and highly respectful. Both Harry and I wholeheartedly recommend her as a Speech and Language therapist.

  • Jamie C.

    Before whenever I spoke I always took 4-5 breaths before speaking and even then I couldn’t get the words out, but since having lessons with Kezia I focused more on slowing down, controlling my breathing and thinking what I want to say before I start speaking.

    I booked in for 8 sessions and it has made all the difference. No one says they can't understand me anymore, and I am much more confident with my speech.

    Kezia is patient, easy to get on with, and has helped me tremendously. I would highly recommend Kezia to anyone looking for help with their speech.

  • Tim G.

    Kezia was brilliant, very understanding of the issues i was working through after a recent facial injury.

    After our sessions I had much more confidence in speaking especially in public or high pressure situations.

    Thank you so much for your help and advice Kezia it has been a crucial part of my recovery.

  • Richard P.

    I was unsure just how much I would benefit from speech therapy after such debilitating surgery, but I needn’t have been concerned. I was immediately put at ease safe in the knowledge that Kezia had the program in place specifically for my needs.

    My confidence has grown after just a few sessions and my conversational skills are improving more after each one. I’m delighted with the results so far and thoroughly recommend Kezia and her unique style of therapy to anyone looking to improve their diagnosed speech deficiency and speak with more assurance.

  • Gary C.

    After working with Kezia I’m now more relaxed, happier and less anxious about my stammer. Highly recommend!

  • Chris D.

    Great speech therapist - highly recommend. Kezia was really able to get at the source of my issues and show me how to improve.

    She has a good understanding of how to reduce/eliminate stress of potential stammering and generally improve speech confidence

  • Alex J.

    Having had voice problems for a number of months, I was starting to doubt whether progress could be made, but the session really helped me to see light at the end of the tunnel.

    I am feeling the benefits of this now, and would highly recommend Kezia to anyone experiencing similar issues.

  • Linda M.

    Before my stroke I was a very confident person and Kezia helped me to regain the confidence I needed to communicate. Kezia was professional, kind, compassionate and patient.

  • Carole V.

    With Kezia’s positive attitude and encouragement I noticed a marked improvement in my voice in only a couple of weeks. Kezia is conscientious, knowledgeable and professional and I would recommend her unreservedly.

  • Becky J.

    Kezia is a fantastic coach who has really helped me move forward after a difficult period in my life.

    Kezia is friendly and professional and so easy to talk to which really helped me to be honest with myself which in turn enabled her to support me with the tools I needed to help me move forward.

  • Elizabeth M.

    I have been working with Kezia for two sessions now and she has made a big difference to my wellbeing both personally and professionally.

    She excels in reflective listening, and has a gift in her ability to summarise, which helps me to see things more clearly, and to feel properly heard. Her skill in asking just the right question helps me to find the answers myself.

    As a Speech Therapy supervisor, she is generous with her clinical experience and ideas to help me develop my own. Thank you, Kezia, I feel richer for working with you.

  • Emma M.

    I had the pleasure of working with Kezia for 10 months. She created a relaxed and open environment where I felt comfortable discussing my concerns. Her approach was both professional and empathetic, allowing me to tackle my issues with confidence.

    Kezia provided practical exercises and strategies to address my challenges, and her attentive listening made me feel heard and supported throughout our sessions. Thanks to her guidance, I now feel much more confident and better equipped to manage negative thoughts. I’m truly grateful for Kezia’s help and highly recommend her coaching services.

  • Adrian M.

    Louise was a true professional in every way, listening, offering advice and building my confidence in my journey.

    I was lucky in that I didn't have to start from the beginning, and wondered how much I could be helped.  Despite my thoughts, Louise had thoroughly planned every session and there were never any gaps or awkward moments.

    Exercises and recommendations were always suggested with reading material based on the sessions sent efficiently post sessions. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • There are various overlaps between Speech and Language Therapy and Communication Coaching.

    👉 All sessions are completely focused on you. Both services start with a conversation to identify the goals that are most important to achieve, considering the wider influence on your day-to-day life. Personalised action plans will be agreed based on your goals.

    👉 Both services draw on evidence from scientific and psychological fields, including learnings from neuroplasticity, motor learning and habit formation to result in maximum impact.  

    👉 We address any psychological as well as physical symptoms in both Speech and Language Therapy and Communication Coaching.

    So what’s the difference?

    Speech and Language Therapy

    The main focus of sessions tends to be to improve your communication skills in order to have more effective and enjoyable conversations with others. Your communication may be impaired due to a diagnosed condition.

    Communication Coaching

    The main focus of sessions tends to be to improve your confidence and create a positive mindset about your communication.

    I think I need both – how do I know which is more suitable for me?

    A bespoke package involving a combination of Speech and Language Therapy and Communication Coaching may be best suited for you. You may have symptoms you want to improve alongside working on improving your confidence and mindset around your communication.

    For further information about each service - have a browse on our website, download our Services and Pricing Guide or get in touch.

  • Appointments can take place via online video consultation, in our Maidstone clinic or at your home.

    Areas covered for home visits include (but are not limited to): Maidstone, Medway, Swale, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Malling, and surrounding areas (travel charges apply).

  • We can usually offer an initial appointment within a couple of weeks. Online appointments are generally available most quickly.

    We offer online appointments and home visits on all weekdays. Clinic appointments are currently available on Wednesdays.

    Our Associate Speech and Language Therapists can offer some early evening and weekend appointments.

  • Prices are dependent on which service you require, the intensity of input you need and the location.

    You download our Services and Pricing Guide for further information, including costs.

  • This is very dependent on various factors, for example: your condition, the severity of your symptoms, your motivation and ability to practice between sessions, your level of support.

    For some, one session of advice is sufficient, whereas we have been seeing other clients for over a year.

    We will agree a plan that suits your budget and needs.

  • We can provide intervention whilst you wait to see an NHS Speech and Language Therapist. We request that when you receive an appointment with your NHS therapist that you let us know so that we can liaise with the NHS therapist to provide an appropriate handover.

    We understand that NHS services are often under pressure and unable to provide the intensity of therapy that you require. If you want to see us alongside your NHS Speech and Language Therapist, we are happy to offer additional input to supplement the care you are receiving. However we request that you inform us and your NHS therapist so that we can liaise and agree on the best approach to help you manage your condition.

  • Yes, we work as a treating Speech and Language Therapist for medicolegal-funded cases. Case Managers are welcome to contact us for further information.

  • We have some available slots for clients registered with Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, WPA, Aviva and Cigna.

    When requesting an appointment, please let us know if you are hoping to use private healthcare cover. We will need your authorisation number prior to offering a session.

    Please note, this applies to adult clients only. We do not offer any services for children.

  • Sorry, we do not offer Speech and Language Therapy for children.

    We are very aware of the current difficulties accessing SLT for children and we really empathise.

    Take a look here for private paediatric SLTs who may be able to help, or seek an NHS referral via your GP.