Our Approach

Selwyn Speech Studio is a private speech and literacy practice supporting children who are finding communication or learning challenging. The studio was created to provide a calm, welcoming, and supportive environment where children can build skills, confidence, and a positive relationship with communication.

Every child is unique, and therapy at Selwyn Speech Studio is always individualised. Sessions are designed to be engaging and encouraging, while also grounded in evidence-based practice, so progress feels achievable and meaningful for both children and their families.

Hello, I’m Elissa, a Speech-Language Therapist and the Clinical Director of Selwyn Speech Studio.

I have a strong interest in supporting children with speech sound difficulties and literacy development, and I’m passionate about helping children feel confident and capable in their communication. I understand that seeking support for your child can sometimes feel overwhelming, and my goal is to make the process as clear, supportive, and positive as possible.

I studied at the University of Canterbury and graduated with a Bachelor of Speech and Language Therapy with Honours.  I worked at the Ministry of Education from 2004 and I was fortunate to have a years leave during 2008 when my husband and I travelled overseas.  During this time, I worked as a Locum Speech and Language Therapist for the NHS Trust in Scotland and England.  I then returned to the Ministry of Education in 2009 until going on Maternity leave in 2012.  I now have three children and work part time around family life.  I am a member of the New Zealand Speech Therapy Association.

I take the time to really get to know each child — their strengths, interests, and learning style — and tailor therapy to meet their individual needs. Building rapport and trust is a key part of my work, and I strive to create sessions where children feel safe, motivated, and proud of their progress.

Meet Elissa

Working with Families

I believe that parents and caregivers play a vital role in a child’s communication journey. Therapy at Selwyn Speech Studio is not just about what happens during sessions — it’s about supporting families with practical strategies and clear guidance so learning can continue at home and in everyday life.

Families are kept informed and involved throughout the process, with open communication and resources provided to support progress outside of therapy sessions.

What you can Expect

When you work with Selwyn Speech Studio, you can expect:

  • A warm, friendly, and child-centred approach

  • Individualised assessment and therapy planning

  • Engaging, play-based sessions that children enjoy

  • Clear communication with parents and caregivers

  • Practical ideas and activities to support learning at home

  • Therapy delivered at a pace that suits your child.

A young boy in a red long sleeve shirt interacts with a large wooden educational wall board decorated with colorful toys, numbers, and shapes.
A child's hand holding a red polka-dotted pencil, writing on a worksheet with colorful pencils and an eraser nearby on a wooden table.
A young woman with brown hair stacked wooden geometric blocks.

Our Purpose

The purpose of Selwyn Speech Studio is simple — to support children to communicate effectively and with confidence, and to support families every step of the way.

It is a privilege to be part of each child’s communication journey, and I am committed to providing high-quality, thoughtful, and supportive care for every family I work with.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about how Selwyn Speech Studio can support your child, I’d love to hear from you.