Your Childs Success Journey starts
NOW!
Our Mission at Chatterbox
Innovative Therapy, Inclusive Care, Brighter Futures.
Over 20 Years of Helping Children Thrive, One Step at a Time.
3. Empowering Children, Supporting Families, Transforming Lives.
The Chatterbox Story
Since its founding in 2004 by the visionary Melissa De Matteo, Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services has been a trusted source of hope, innovation, and support for children with special needs and their families. With a Bachelor of Health Science (Honours) and a Master’s in Speech Pathology, along with six years of leadership experience on the board of the Australian Red Cross (Victoria Division), Melissa brought her deep expertise and unwavering passion to create a service that truly makes a difference.
Chatterbox was born out of necessity. In the early 2000s, families in the Banyule area faced an overwhelming 18-month waitlist for therapy services, leaving children and educators without vital support. Melissa saw the urgent need for change and established Chatterbox to bridge this gap, focusing on providing life-changing support for complex cases, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Today, Chatterbox is a leader in paediatric therapy services across Victoria, celebrated for its innovative programs and holistic approach to therapy. Our services are tailored to meet the unique developmental, educational, and emotional needs of each child. From dynamic group programs that foster social skills to personalised therapy sessions, we ensure every child receives the care they need to thrive.
We are proud to be trusted by medical professionals and recommended by families who have been part of our community for years. Many of our clients have grown with us, starting as toddlers and continuing their journey with Chatterbox as they transition through life’s milestones. Our commitment goes beyond the child; we provide invaluable support to families, empowering parents and caregivers with the tools and guidance they need to support their children’s growth
At Chatterbox, we believe in thinking outside the box. Our services don’t just stop at traditional therapy. With initiatives like our Creative Arts Academy, blending art, music, drama, yoga, and dance therapy, and our PREPARE program, designed to help children transition to mainstream schooling, we continue to lead with innovation and inclusivity.
Come and join our Chatterbox community!
Neuro-Affirming Practice: Our Mission
At Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services, we are proud to be a neuro-affirming clinic where neurodiversity is celebrated as the foundation of our approach. We believe that conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental differences are not challenges to be fixed but rather unique strengths that contribute to the richness of the human experience.
Our therapists are trained to create an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment where every child is embraced for who they are. By focusing on their individual strengths and needs, we nurture their growth and development in a way that honours their unique identity.
At the heart of our clinic is the integration of evidence-based practices. We stay at the forefront of the latest research in paediatric therapy, ensuring that all our interventions—whether in speech pathology, occupational therapy, or other disciplines—are both effective and grounded in science.
We also recognise that neurodiversity extends beyond the individual, encompassing their families, educators, and communities. That’s why we prioritise collaboration with parents, caregivers, and educators, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to support the child’s journey and success.
By embracing neurodiversity and championing evidence-based practices, Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services is more than a clinic—we are a safe space of acceptance, empowerment, and inclusion for children and families navigating the complexities and beauty of neurodevelopmental differences.
Inclusion: Everyone is welcome to join our community
Inclusion is Our Foundation
At Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We celebrate and honour the unique strengths and perspectives of every child and family we work with. Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment where all children, teens. young adults feel valued, understood, and supported to reach their full potential. This extends to parents and our team members.
Our approach is holistic and inclusive, extending beyond the individual to embrace families, educators, and communities. By fostering collaboration and open communication, we ensure that everyone in a child’s support network is equipped to nurture their growth and success.
Through evidence-based practices and a commitment to celebrating differences, we aim to build a world where every child belongs and their individuality is celebrated.
At Chatterbox, inclusion isn’t just a practice—it’s who we are.
OUR TEAM
Rest assured, your therapist at Chatterbox is not only trained but also highly qualified.
We take immense pride in the diverse educational backgrounds, extensive knowledge bases, and specialized expertise of our therapy staff. Our team comprises professionals with honours and master's degrees, alongside others who boast specialized training and certification in various areas of therapy. This blend of qualifications ensures that each therapist brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table, enhancing the quality and effectiveness of our services.
