Meet Taylor: Life as a Rural Speechie in WA 

What’s your name and what is your role in healthcare?

Hi  my name’s Taylor (@theruralspeechie). I’m a paediatric speech pathologist, which means I help kids learn how to understand others and express themselves.

 

How did you get started in healthcare? What inspired you to pursue this career?

I grew up in the Midwest and, like many people, had no idea what I wanted to do when I finished school. I took a gap year, and the first job I got was as a medical receptionist. That job opened my eyes to the world of healthcare and made me realise I wanted a career where I could help people. I happened to know a speech pathologist and since I love to talk, I thought it sounded perfect for me! I moved to Perth and studied at Curtin University (back then, online study wasn’t really an option). Since then, I’ve spent most of my career working in rural areas all across Western Australia.

 

What’s one of the most rewarding parts of your job?

Communication is such a big part of life. It helps us build relationships, share how we feel, and connect with the people around us. One of the best parts of my job is being part of a child’s journey to learn how to communicate. Sometimes I get to see a child say their first word or tell their parent “I love you” for the first time. Being there for those special moments is something I’ll never forget.

 

What challenges do you face working in healthcare, especially in a remote area like the Pilbara?

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare is burnout. This means feeling really tired and stressed from working too much or not having enough support. It’s something many people in healthcare experience, especially in busy or remote areas. The good news is there’s now more awareness about burnout, which means more support is available. Taking care of yourself, setting good boundaries, and having strong support from your team can really help. Working in a remote place like the Pilbara can be tough, but with the right strategies, it’s also incredibly rewarding.

 

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in healthcare in the Pilbara?

You don’t have to move to a big city anymore to study healthcare. There are lots of online courses and training options, which means you can stay close to home and still follow your dreams. Working in the Pilbara gives you the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. Many people in remote areas don’t have easy access to healthcare, so every bit of support matters. It’s an amazing feeling to know your work is helping others live healthier, happier lives.

 

What’s a typical day like for you?

I work closely with parents, carers, and educators to come up with fun and simple ways to support children to communicate. Most of the time, I’m on the floor playing games, singing songs, or using toys to make learning fun. I visit homes, daycares, or schools, places where children already feel comfortable. My day also includes writing notes, creating reports, and working with other therapists to make sure we’re all supporting the child in the best way.

 

Why do you choose to work and live in the Pilbara?

I love the Pilbara for its relaxed lifestyle and beautiful natural spaces, it’s like having nature’s playground in your backyard. But what really keeps me here is the chance to make a difference. Helping kids and families in remote areas is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. You truly feel like your work matters.

 

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about working in healthcare rurally?

If you’re even a little bit curious about working in healthcare, reach out to someone local. Ask if you can visit a clinic or spend some time shadowing a healthcare worker. Even spending one hour in a real setting can help you see if it’s the right fit. There are so many ways to get involved and start learning.

 

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