Teletherapy, or telepractice, refers to the use of technology to provide healthcare or educational services from a distance (i.e., via a videoconferencing platform). Teletherapy had already been used by Speech-Language Pathologists for decades before the COVID-19 pandemic, and studies show that it is as effective as in-person treatment. (For some clients, it can be even more effective than in-person treatment!)

For younger children -- parent and/or caregiver education, coaching, and training are key. I coach parents on language-building strategies that they can begin using immediately, and use every day, to improve their child’s communication skills. We’ll practice these strategies together during play, book-reading, and “real life” routines such as cooking, mealtime, and getting dressed. I also engage children directly with books, songs, games, crafts, toys, and even green screen adventures! Some parts of treatment may look like “just play,” but remember Mr. Rogers’s wise words: “For children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” For older children and adolescents -- we'll use virtual games, books, green screen activities, worksheets, YouTube videos, iPad activities, interactive slideshows, virtual whiteboards, and more. A parent or caregiver may or may not need to be “on-screen,” participating directly in treatment. Parent education is provided during the last 5-10 minutes of the session.

Teletherapy requires a computer or tablet with: a webcam, a microphone (internal or external), and a high-speed Internet connection (wired or wireless). To improve the quality of the audio you hear, and for your privacy, consider wearing headphones. To improve the quality of the audio the Speech-Language Pathologist hears (especially important for speech sound treatment), consider a headset with a microphone. To improve call quality and avoid lags or other connection issues, try using a wired Ethernet connection, or moving closer to your WiFi router. Close all other Internet browser tabs and programs running in the background. You can test your Internet connection speed via free websites such as speedtest.net.

Pick a location that is private, quiet, and distraction-free. Turn off the TV and other noisy devices, close windows and doors, and move loud pets away from the area. For younger children, a parent or caregiver may be expected to be an active participant in treatment (i.e., remain on-screen or very nearby).

Telepractice prevents the use of certain traditional therapy techniques (e.g., hands-on manipulation of the mouth, hand-over-hand instruction, sharing physical toys together). However, motivated parents and caregivers can be trained to use some of the hands-on methods that the SLP would typically employ in-person. In my experience, telepractice has advantages over traditional in-person therapy -- it opens up a whole world of engaging and effective virtual tools and activities, and it easily facilitates parent or caregiver involvement. Telepractice is dependent upon technology, and technology “glitches” do happen from time to time. I will work with you to troubleshoot, should an issue arise. In-person services may be a better option for clients with certain diagnoses, behavioral challenges, technology challenges, or simply based on personal preference.

Oak Tree Speech and Language uses a secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform. To increase the level of confidentiality on your end, it is recommended that you use a private and secure Internet connection, situate yourself in a private environment, and wear headphones. Otherwise, there is a possibility that people in your surroundings may overhear your session.