Caolán McCarthy
Speech and Language Therapist, Children’s Disability Network Team, Enable Ireland
Speech and language therapists can make a life-changing difference to the children they work with. It’s a rewarding role where even small breakthroughs can have a big impact.
Caolán McCarthy doesn’t think of his job as ‘a job.’ He thinks of it as ‘an honour.’ As a speech and language therapist (SLT) working in the Children’s Disability Network Team at Enable Ireland — the national disability services provider — he’s aware of the humbling difference he can make in children’s lives.
Role of speech and language therapists
“I work with children of varying ages, profiles and complex needs who may struggle to find an effective way to communicate with the people around them,” McCarthy explains. “If the way someone communicates isn’t understood by the people around them, then they can’t express their emotions, passions or physiological needs — like when they’re hungry, thirsty, tired or sick. I have the honour of ‘bridging the gap’ between a child and their family or school, making communication more accessible and allowing the person to communicate comfortably and freely.”
Culture of understanding and acceptance
Seeing the development of the children he works with is one of the best things about being a SLT, notes McCarthy. “It doesn’t have to be a big, long-term development,” he says. “Making a moment of connection can be fulfilling, too. It’s wonderful to see the difference between someone at the beginning of a session — when they might be so tightly wound that they’re unable to move — versus the end of a session, when they’re feeling happier and comfortable. You get a sense that you’ve helped create a safe space for them and their family, and that’s a hugely rewarding first step.”
McCarthy — who is neurodivergent himself — joined Enable Ireland last year. “Working somewhere with great facilities and where there are chances for continued professional and skills development is a boon,” he admits. “There’s also a lovely community here where you feel supported by your team and a culture of understanding and acceptance. My neurodivergence also gives me insight into the experiences of the children I work with and, hopefully, improves the quality of my work.”
