Our Team
Abbey Hickey
Director / Certified Practising Speech Pathologist
Lennox Head has always been home, and it’s a privilege to now give back to the community that has given me so much. As Co-Founder and Director of The Lennox Speech Spot, I bring a passion for delivering evidence-based, family-centred care to every client and their family.
Since graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Pathology, I’ve worked across a variety of settings, including private practice, NSW Health, and community health. This diverse experience has shaped my person-centred approach – always considering the overall journey and tailoring therapy to create a functional, meaningful impact in everyday life.
I work with clients of all ages and love supporting people at every stage of their lives. As a mother myself, I understand the juggle of family life and the importance of practical, flexible support that works in real-world contexts. I have a particular passion for working with adults with communication and swallowing difficulties, and I am committed to providing neuroaffirming, individualised support that honours each person’s unique strengths and needs.
I’m also committed to providing the highest quality, personalised service and the stability of ongoing support – you’ll be working with the same dedicated Speech Pathologist who knows your goals, strengths, and story, and is with you every step of the way.
Mikaela (Miki) Takacs
Director / Certified Practising Speech Pathologist
Having grown up in the Northern Rivers, I’m excited to be back in the community I call home and to now be raising my own family here. As Co-Founder and Director of The Lennox Speech Spot, I take a play-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach, ensuring each child feels confident and engaged throughout their therapy journey.
I have worked across private practice, schools, and community settings, supporting children with a wide range of communication needs. I have completed Hanen training and love working closely with families to support early language development. I also have experience working with gestalt language processors and fostering their unique communication style, alongside extensive experience in supporting children with speech sound disorders.
I have a particular passion for literacy and helping children who learn to read and spell in different ways, adapting strategies to match their strengths. My focus is always on creating positive, meaningful, and empowering therapy experiences for both children and their families.
We are so excited to officially welcome our newest Speech Pathologist, Olivia (Liv), to the Lennox Speech Spot team!
As a proud Lennox Head local, Liv holds a Bachelor of Speech Pathology from Southern Cross University and is excited to begin supporting local children, adults and families within the community she calls home.
In addition to her work at Lennox Speech Spot, Liv also works with NSW Health, supporting adults with communication and swallowing difficulties following strokes and traumatic brain injuries.
Liv is warm, approachable, and passionate about helping children and adults build confidence in their communication. She is committed to providing evidence based, family centred therapy that is tailored to each person's individual strengths, interests, and goals.
With her caring nature, enthusiasm for learning, and genuine love for helping others, we know Liv will be a wonderful addition to our team. We can't wait for our families to meet her!
Olivia (Liv) Ruskin
Certified Practising Speech Pathologist
Jasmin (Jaz) Meier
Administration Assistant
Jaz is our Administration Assistant at The Lennox Speech Spot.
She works behind the scenes to help keep the clinic running smoothly. From assisting with appointments and enquiries to supporting our clinicians and families, Jaz helps ensure everyone feels welcomed and well supported.
Warm, friendly and organised, Jaz brings such positive energy to the clinic. Many of our families will get to know her as one of the friendly faces helping with all things administration.