Kate Duarte received her Master of Science (Speech Pathology) from Curtin University in 2002. Her early career years saw her working at the Disability Services Commission, primarily in Early Intervention and as Clinical Dysphagia Specialist. Kate now works independently in the private sector, with a particular interest in adults with acquired and progressive neurological diseases. She specialises in supporting clients with swallowing difficulties and complex communication disorders, and providing training to staff and families with regard to communication support and mealtime management skills.