Caroline Murphy, Speech & Language Therapist
Qualifications
MA Psychology, MSc Speech and Language Pathology and Therapy
Specialisms
Paediatrics, Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Communication Disorders, Cleft Palate, Learning Difficulties, Hearing Impairment & Alternative Augmentative Communication
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Professional Experience
I am a highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist with extensive experience in paediatrics across both the NHS and independent practice. Since qualifying in 1996, I have supported children and young people (0–18 years) with complex speech, language, and communication difficulties, including acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, dysarthria, dyspraxia, autism spectrum disorder and global developmental delay.
In my current NHS and independent practice, I specialise in the assessment and management of children and young people with complex presentations. I develop and deliver tailored therapeutic interventions for individuals with communication disorders arising from brain injury, neurological conditions, neurodevelopmental differences, deafness and genetic syndromes. I have particular expertise in supporting those with cognitive-communication difficulties, motor speech disorders, and those requiring augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and Total Communication (TC).
I am commissioned by local authorities, schools, case managers, and families to provide expert speech, language, and communication assessments for children and young people with significant communication and learning needs. A key area of my work involves supporting individuals with acquired brain injury, who may experience profound difficulties with speech, language processing, cognition, emotional regulation and social interaction. I work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including clinical and educational psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and educational staff to ensure a holistic approach to intervention that maximises individual’s communication potential and quality of life. I regularly contribute professional advice to education, health and care needs assessments and support individuals who use a range of communication modalities, including AAC, Makaton, Total Communication, and spoken language.
Professional Development
I maintain my professional development and HCPC standards by attending relevant training.
Medico Legal Experience
I have extensive experience as an expert witness, conducting comprehensive assessments, writing detailed reports, and providing oral evidence at Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Tribunals. I prepare 'condition and prognosis' and quantum reports for both claimants and defendants in medico-legal cases. My specialist knowledge in acquired brain injury, complex communication disorders, and AAC makes me a trusted expert in providing objective, evidence-based recommendations for therapy, education, and long-term support.
I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.