Are Virtual Speech-Language Therapy Services Effective?

Speech-language therapy or dyslexia intervention from the comfort of your own home…it sounds great—but is it the right choice for your child? 

At True Potential Education Dyslexia & Speech Therapy, we have seen clients achieve amazing outcomes in both in-person and virtual (teletherapy) settings, and we believe that either–or a combination of both–is a good choice for most children! Read on to learn more about the benefits of teletherapy, what sessions might look like, and what research says about the effectiveness of teletherapy vs. in-person services.

Benefits of Virtual Speech Therapy and Dyslexia Intervention

Reduces barriers to services

Teletherapy reduces geographic, scheduling, and financial barriers to ensure that all children have equal access to high-quality care. Children who live in smaller communities can access services normally available in cities without the travel time. Appointments can take place from home at times that work into busy family schedules, and secondary expenses such as fuel cost are eliminated.

Opportunities for family involvement

Parents and caregivers have the opportunity to observe what takes place during sessions. Parents are encouraged to join the last few minutes of each session to  ask questions, discuss progress, and learn strategies to support their child at home and in school.

Learning takes place in the environment children feel most comfortable

Some children may feel intimidated or distracted in a less familiar environment. Virtual sessions take place at home, where the child feels comfortable and confident.

Improves consistency of care

Illnesses, bad weather, scheduling conflicts, and transportation problems happen. Thanks to the option of virtual sessions, these problems don’t have to result in missed or canceled sessions, ensuring that progress continues uninterrupted!

What Do Virtual Sessions Look Like?

Teletherapy sessions look a lot like in-person sessions–only the location is different! Our speech-language pathologists and dyslexia interventionists provide the same comprehensive evaluations, target the same goals, and utilize the same evidence-based treatment strategies. 

How do I need to prepare for my child’s virtual sessions?

Our therapists and interventionists are trained to make sessions fun and engaging while running smoothly. All you need is a comfortable and quiet environment with limited distractions and a desktop, laptop, or tablet device. Students participating in dyslexia sessions will be asked to purchase a supply kit to support our multi-sensory treatment program. Before each session, you will receive a secure Zoom link that will connect you to your therapist’s virtual treatment room.

What does family involvement look like? 

Parents and caregivers are welcome to be as involved as their child wants or needs them to be. Younger children or those who need more support may benefit from active parent participation during session activities. Many school-aged children are able to participate in sessions independently. Either way, parents are encouraged to come to the screen during the last few minutes of a session to discuss progress, ask questions, and talk about ways to support their child at home and in school.

How Does the Effectiveness of Virtual Sessions Compare with In-Person Sessions?
Studies are demonstrating similar outcomes for speech-language therapy services delivered online and in-person (see examples here and here)! At True Potential, we provide the same high-quality services–and expect the same results–in the environment that is most comfortable and convenient for you!

Sources:

Grogan-Johnson S, Alvares R, Rowan L, Creaghead N. A pilot study comparing the effectiveness of speech language therapy provided by telemedicine with conventional on-site therapy. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare. 2010;16(3):134-139. doi:10.1258/jtt.2009.090608

Wales D, Skinner L, Hayman M. The efficacy of telehealth-delivered speech and language intervention for primary school-age children: A systematic review. Int J Telerehabil. 2017 Jun 29;9(1):55-70. doi: 10.5195/ijt.2017.6219