Services · Swallowing disorders
Aoife-led
Swallowing disorders
Swallowing seems simple until it isn't. After a stroke, with Parkinson's, as we age, the coordination that used to be automatic can start to fail.
Clinical overview
Understanding dysphagia
Dysphagia means disordered swallowing. It can occur at different points in the swallow. Sometimes this could be in the oral phase, such as difficulties chewing. Or it could be in the pharyngeal phase, where we may notice food sticking or aspiration, things going the wrong way.
Causes of dysphagia vary. Neurological conditions and stroke can be common causes. Head and neck cancer or surgery to that area.
We use clinical bedside assessment to complete a thorough case history, an oromotor and cranial nerve examination (including impacts on taste, smell, and salivary production), and then complete some oral trials with liquids and food.
We would then come up with a plan for safe textures to be consumed, diet guidelines, compensatory management techniques, and potentially rehabilitation exercises if an instrumental assessment has been completed.
Aoife O'Reilly is the lead clinician for swallowing assessment and management at Sona.
Our approach
How Aoife works with you
Assessment is conversation, observation, oral trials, and family training, in that order. Restriction is the last resort, not the first.
Listening to your experience
Which foods are difficult? When does coughing happen? What have you stopped eating? What does mealtime feel like now? Your experience guides the assessment.
Watching you eat and drink
Aoife observes swallowing across different textures and consistencies: water, thickened liquids, soft foods, regular foods. She's watching for signs of aspiration risk, timing, coordination.
Finding what's safe (and what's possible)
The goal isn't restriction for restriction's sake. It's understanding which textures your swallow can handle safely, and maximising quality of life within those boundaries.
Training the people who matter
Family training is essential. Aoife teaches your caregivers how to prepare safe textures, optimal positioning, what signs to watch for, and what to do in an emergency. Confidence replaces fear.
Instrumental assessment
Sometimes clinical assessment is enough. Sometimes we'll need a closer look.
If so, Aoife will coordinate a referral for instrumental assessments including videofluoroscopy or FEES.
Referrals for instrumental assessments such as VFSS and FEES can be made but are not available directly through Sona. Aoife communicates with your medical team, integrates the results, and adjusts your management plan based on what they show. Complex swallowing needs coordinated care.
Pricing
Clear pricing, no surprises
In-person · Wellington clinic
Initial assessment
$320
Follow-up sessions
from $240
Telehealth · nationwide
Initial assessment
$260
Follow-up sessions
from $200
Frequently asked
Questions about swallowing therapy
How do I know if it's safe to eat normally?
That's exactly what assessment determines. Some swallowing problems need strict texture modification; others need positioning changes; some need exercises to strengthen the swallow. Until you know what's happening, you're guessing. Assessment replaces guesswork with a clear plan.
Does ACC cover swallowing therapy?
Only if your swallowing problem resulted from an accident: stroke (classified as acute accident), traumatic brain injury, or treatment injury from surgery. Swallowing difficulties from Parkinson's, MS, aging, or other illnesses aren't ACC-covered. We'll discuss funding options during assessment, including private payment.
Can swallowing therapy be done via telehealth?
Initial swallowing assessment is best in-person at our Newtown clinic. We need to observe you eating and drinking different textures safely. But ongoing therapy, family training, and monitoring often work well via telehealth. We'll recommend what makes sense for your situation.
My mother has dementia and swallowing is getting worse. Can you help?
Yes. Swallowing decline with dementia is common and frightening for families. Assessment helps you understand what's safe, what's risky, and how to maximise quality of life. Aoife provides family training so you know exactly what to do. This reduces both risk and anxiety.
What does texture modification actually mean?
It's adjusting food consistency to match swallowing ability. The IDDSI framework provides standardised levels, from regular texture down to liquidised/puree. Aoife assesses which level is safe for you, then trains you and your family in how to prepare foods consistently. The goal is safety without unnecessary restriction.
What if someone chokes? What do I do?
Family training covers emergency protocols. If someone is coughing forcefully, encourage it. Coughing is protective. If they can't cough, breathe, or speak, that's obstruction: back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich), and call 111 immediately. We practice this until you feel confident.
How much does swallowing therapy cost?
Initial assessment: $207 in-person at our Wellington clinic, $167 via telehealth. Follow-up sessions: in-person $157, telehealth $127. We provide detailed invoices for insurance claims or tax purposes.
My parent was discharged from hospital with 'modified diet' but we don't really understand it
This is incredibly common. Hospital discharge information is often rushed and overwhelming. Assessment helps us understand what level they're actually on, confirm it's still appropriate, and train you properly in how to implement it. Clear understanding replaces confusion.
Start with a free conversation
Ready to eat with confidence again?
Free 15-minute telehealth conversation with Aoife to talk through what's happening. No commitment, no cost. Or have your hospital team or GP refer you directly.