Michelle Thompson-Laing

Clinical Director & Certified Practising Speech Pathologist/Accredited Audiologist.

Michelle has over 18 years of experience working with children and families, starting her career as an Audiologist before becoming a Speech Pathologist. She founded Speak Listen Learn in 2021 to deliver high-quality, evidence-based Speech Pathology and Audiology services for children and young people on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

As a mother of three boys, Michelle understands the joys and challenges of parenting. She brings a genuine and empathetic approach to her clinical practice, working collaboratively with families and meeting individuals where they are each day.

Michelle enjoys working with a wide range of age groups and clinical presentations. She has a particular passion for early intervention and parent training, areas in which she has extensive experience.

She is especially dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families, drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience. Her clinical interests also include speech sound disorders, developmental language disorder (DLD), and literacy intervention.

Michelle’s diverse career has spanned various settings, including government organisations, universities, schools, hospitals, and private practice. She values collaboration as part of a multidisciplinary team and is skilled in supporting families through a key worker model that emphasises collaboration.

In addition to her professional degrees, Michelle has completed advanced training and certifications in:

• MIGDAS 2 and ADOS 2 for use as part of autism evaluations.
• Sounds-Write & Orton Gillingham for literacy intervention
• “Learn to Play” Therapy Intervention
• LEGO® Based Therapy Facilitator Training
• Triple P Positive Parenting Training
• Nuffield Dyspraxia Programme (NDP3)
• Gestalt Language Processing

Farah Hanna

Certified Practising Speech Pathologist

Farah is a kind and personable paediatric speech pathologist who is passionate about supporting children and their families to build confidence, comfort, and connection in communication. She takes a play-based, child-led approach to therapy, using each child’s interests to build motivation, engagement, and meaningful progress.

Her practice is grounded in strengths-based, affirming principles, with a strong focus on collaboration with families, schools, daycares, and other medical and allied health professionals. She is committed to delivering evidence-based therapy and prioritises ongoing professional development to ensure her practice remains current and responsive to each child’s needs.

Farah holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Speech Pathology) from the University of Sydney and has experience across private practice, public and community health, university clinics, and research settings. She has also been involved in an international volunteer program through Projects Abroad at Theraplay and the San Remigio Rehabilitation Centre, providing speech pathology support to vulnerable children and their families.

Fluent in spoken and written English and German, Farah also speaks Arabic and has intermediate spoken and written French. She lives locally and, outside of work, enjoys travelling and spending time with her close-knit family and friends.

Mikayla D’Hondt

Speech Pathology Allied Health Assistant

Mikayla is a warm and engaging Speech Pathology Allied Health Assistant, currently completing a dual Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences and Psychology at Macquarie University.

Growing up, attending school, and living on the Northern Beaches, Mikayla is passionate about supporting her local community.

Mikayla brings valuable experience working with children and families, including as a nanny supporting children aged 9 months to 14 years. Her role has developed her ability to build rapport, foster development, and create a positive and supportive environment for children.

Through her studies, Mikayla has gained strong communication skills, a deep understanding of confidentiality, and a passion for creating meaningful connections with families.

Mikayla’s compassionate nature and commitment to achieving positive outcomes make her a valuable part of the team. She is excited to use her knowledge and skills to support children and families on their journey.

Lizzy Tabone

Client Services & Administration Assistant

Lizzy is our Client Services and Administrative Assistant. With over 18 years of experience in office administration, she brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, and professionalism to our clinic.

She has worked across healthcare, real estate, and community services, developing a deep understanding of compassion, confidentiality, and family-centred care in health settings.

With a Certificate III in Children’s Services and hands-on experience in early childhood education, Lizzy has a natural rapport with children and families. As a mum to a daughter herself, she understands the importance of feeling heard, supported, and cared for. Her calm, friendly presence ensures every family feels welcomed and reassured.

Highly efficient, detail-oriented, and a natural communicator, Lizzy keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. Whether managing bookings, coordinating schedules, or assisting with enquiries, she does so with care and professionalism.

Lizzy is a vibrant and valued part of our team, and we’re so glad to have her supporting the wonderful children and families we work with every day.