Spotlight Series: Speech and Language Pathology Leadership at Therapy Pro
At Therapy Pro, we believe great leadership inspires great therapy.
In this edition of our Leadership Spotlight Series, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Liz, our National Head of Speech and Language Pathology and a driving force in speech therapy leadership at Therapy Pro.
Liz plays a key role in shaping how our speech pathologists support their clients and their colleagues. She brings clarity and connection to her team.
We recently had the chance to chat with Liz about her leadership philosophy, the principles she leans on to get the best from her team, and what she’s learned along the way.
Finding leadership in the everyday
When asked how she approaches speech therapy leadership and supports others to deliver great therapeutic outcomes, Liz had a refreshing response:
“To be honest, I was a little taken aback,” she shared. “We don’t always get the moment to think about the tools we use to draw out the best in our teams.”
That reflection took her back to one of her earliest lessons in leadership, one that has stuck with her ever since.
It wasn’t a textbook. It wasn’t a course. It was a small, manageable book she picked up early in her career that just made sense.
“It was practical and meaningful. No fancy-pants terminology or complex imagery. Four simple, real, and easy to implement principles.”
The ‘Fish Philosophy’: Principles that stick
The book Liz refers to is Fish! by John Christensen. It’s a leadership framework based on observations from the Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle, known for its energy, connection, and positive workplace culture.
Let’s take a closer look at the four principles covered in his book:
1. “Play” by bringing joy and creativity into the workplace
This isn’t about being silly or unprofessional, it’s about cultivating a sense of curiosity, fun, and flexibility in how we work.
For leaders, it means encouraging innovation, being open to new ideas, and creating an environment where people feel safe to try, experiment, and laugh. Play fosters connection, lightens stress, and builds team morale.
2. “Make Their Day” by creating positive moments for others
This principle is all about intentional acts of kindness, appreciation, and recognition. It’s the idea that we can actively uplift others through our words, actions, and presence; whether it’s clients, colleagues, or team members.
It reminds us that leadership isn’t always big gestures; it’s the small, thoughtful ones that often matter most.
3. “Be There” by giving people your full attention
Being present means actively listening and engaging fully in the moment. For leaders, it means showing up for your team, really hearing them, responding thoughtfully, and being available when it counts.
4. “Choose Your Attitude” by taking ownership of how you show up
We may not control everything life throws at us, but we do have control over how we respond. This principle is about self-awareness and the ability to reset. It’s about making conscious choices to bring the right energy into a space, even when things are hard.
These four principles may sound simple, but for Liz, they form the foundation of her leadership approach, particularly when it comes to inspiring great speech therapy leadership across her team.
“They are great for working with clients, great for engaging stakeholders, and just as good for dealing with all life throws at you.”
Bringing the four principles to life in speech therapy leadership at Therapy Pro
“I try to lead with a dash of humour, or a moment of genuine recognition when a team member does something positive,” she explained. “In team meetings, or even in sessions with clients, I really try to be present, to give people my full attention.”
And when things feel tough?
“I try to acknowledge it but not let that feeling carry over into other moments. I choose my attitude, and that helps me keep showing up in a way that feels aligned.”
Advice for fellow leaders and aspiring ones
For Liz, leadership isn’t about having all the answers or doing something big and bold. It’s about showing up, consistently, with heart, and a bit of humour when you can.
Her advice?
“Try it. Choose one of the principles and put it into action. Then share your experience with someone in your team.”
Leadership that lifts others
Liz’s approach to speech therapy leadership is grounded in connection, simplicity, and positivity. Her ability to make things feel both practical and meaningful is what makes her such a valued leader at Therapy Pro.
From sharing a laugh in team meetings to guiding others through tough moments, Liz shows us that great leadership doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be real.
As Liz puts it:
“Great therapy and great leadership are both about showing up with intention, staying present, and finding the joy in what you do.”
More leadership stories coming soon
This is just one of many stories about our incredible leaders here at Therapy Pro. Follow along as we continue to spotlight the voices shaping our therapy teams, championing innovation, and building positive, person-centred workplaces across Australia.
Want to continue your reading? Here are our previous articles in the series:
