Ms Dana M Pickens is a Speech Pathologist based in Gymea, NSW. Her practice is at 2a Gymea Bay Road, Gymea NSW 2227. She helps people of different ages, from kids who are still finding their words to adults who are working through changes to their speech and communication.
In many cases, her sessions focus on speech and language needs. This can include language development for children, plus assessments that help work out what support might help most. For adults, speech therapy can be useful when communication feels harder than it used to, whether that is due to ongoing health changes or day-to-day challenges that build up over time.
Ms Pickens also looks after voice and swallowing concerns. Voice therapy can help with things like hoarseness or voice strain, so speaking feels more comfortable and easier to manage. Swallowing therapy is another part of the work, supporting safer swallowing and helping people feel more confident with eating and drinking. At times, this may involve coaching and practical strategies for home, along with clear goals for each stage of progress.
Her work is guided by the basics of speech pathology training, with a steady focus on what is realistic for each person and family. Sessions are usually built around understanding the issue, trying targeted therapy, and checking in on what is helping. Over time, she aims to make communication and swallowing skills feel more doable, not just something that sits on a checklist.
Ms Pickens offers speech therapy for children and adults, along with language development evaluation, swallowing therapy, and voice therapy. If you live around the Gymea area and you are looking for calm, hands-on support, you can book an appointment at her practice and discuss what’s going on and what you want to improve.