I understand the experiences of both the family and the professional and I strongly believe that everyone deserves the chance to make a difference for even one autistic person.
By creating a flexible, safe and caring space where you can show your vulnerability, and be honest about what you are feeling, I will help and support you to unlock your true potential to make immediate change for autistic people in your community.
Hey, I'm Sam - the face behind The Aussie Speechie
As an autistic Speech Pathologist, I am passionate about working with health professionals who are ready to begin their journey towards creating inclusion in our world.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Speech Pathology
Samantha Rowntree, BSpPath, MSPA CPSP
When I was four, my younger brother was diagnosed with Autism, sparking a change in my life’s journey, but also change in my entire family’s journey.
My quiet nature was thrown to the side in favour of telling off certain teachers for being insensitive and triggering my brother.
By the time I was seven, I was well versed in educating those around me about my brother. I had the Autism definition book marked in my little pocket dictionary in my pencil case, I was the go to when my brother had a meltdown at school, I had a mental beacon of when that scream I heard in the playground was his scream.
Advocacy has been the mantra of my life for as long as I can remember, even before I knew the existence of the word.
I seek a world where everyone is free to be who they deserve to be.
A world where we can all shine.
In a world of increasing awareness, understanding, and acceptance of Autism, access to diagnoses have skyrocketed. An explosion of services has taken place, with waitlists months to years long, and parents stuck with an arsenal of pamphlets from their paediatrician, and no clear path of where to go.
On the flip side, therapists are stuck in an overwhelming loop of trying to understand the fast flowing movement towards neurodiverse affirming practice, a concept not taught to us in universities.
I realised that as a sibling of an Autistic person, an Autistic person myself, and as a health professional, I am uniquely positioned to guide parents AND therapists towards a world that is designed for everyone.
My passions
I am passionate about not hiding my own Autistic traits. BTS, the Korean pop band, are my strongest special interest. It is hard pressed to have a lengthy conversation with me, without me mentioning these boys.
My favourite season
Spring has long been my favourite season - it is the season of my birth. It is warmer, happier, and brings anticipation of summer and holidays.
a bit more of me
My favourite food
