24 Jul The Benefits of Teletherapy in Speech-Language Therapy
How Teletherapy can be Used for Speech Language Therapy
We all use our computers, iPad, and phones to connect with one another socially, complete a variety of tasks in our daily lives, and ever to work remotely. Technology offers an infinite number of possibilities, all at our fingertips. Through teletherapy, access to speech and language therapy sessions from Vancouver Speech Therapy is one of these possibilities.
What is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy, or telepractice, is the of delivering speech-language services via technology, which offers audio and visual communication. These sessions have the potential to target a variety of speech and language goals. Teletherapy can be used for assessment and observation, intervention in the form of therapy sessions, as well as consultation. Articulation of speech sounds, a variety of language, literacy, parent training, and social goals can be supported through teletherapy sessions.
Why Choose Teletherapy?
This therapy model allows access to services from a distance, and minimized time and location constraints. This is a great wat to continue therapy sessions in Vancouver when extenuating circumstances prevent you from having an in-person session with a speech-language pathologist, or when your community or school doesn’t have a SLP nearby. Teletherapy can be implemented in schools, medical health centres and hospitals, clinics, home environments, etc. There are no limits on where it may be practiced, as long as the delivery of service is in accordance with regulations and policies mandated by the regulating body of the profession. Teletherapy sessions must maintain the level of quality which is equal to that of in-person therapy. Teletherapy also allows the therapist to access a variety of materials and resources with the click of a button, meaning there is an endless amount of fun and engaging activities that can be included in a session. If a session needs to be modified as it unfolds, the therapist has easy access to new resources and can continuously tailor the session to each individual child. Since children currently tend to have a lot of access to technology and screen time, this therapy model is particularly motivating for them. The activities are versatile and fun as well, which also increases the motivation for children to engage with the clinician and the material, despite physical distance between client and clinician. 
How is Teletherapy in Vancouver Performed?
There are many platforms that can be used for speech language teletherapy in Vancouver. Videoconferencing is the most common type of platform used for teletherapy, which allows an interactive component between client and clinician through real time audio and video. Many teletherapy platforms or website afford synchronous communication, or the replication of an in-person therapy session, and adhere to the necessary professional regulations and ethical standards. Teletherapy platforms can also be used to facilitate communication between interdisciplinary teams. For instance, Speech Language Pathologists can hold meetings with parents and other team members such as teachers to collaborate on important matters such as IEPs and goal progression. Sessions can also be recorded and replayed, meaning that if your child is receiving teletherapy sessions while you are not present, you can still be involved by watching the session and implementing any relevant therapy techniques at home!