VIRTUALLY EVERYWHERE: The pandemic introduced many parents to the convenience of telemedicine or telehealth. Using audio and video technology, patients and clinicians are able to communicate with each other by computer or smartphone, at any time or from anywhere.
with each other by computer or smartphone, at any time or from anywhere. This eliminates transportation concerns and waiting in unpredictable public waiting rooms for appointments -- a scenario that can contribute to negative interaction with others. Virtual visits can be easier to fit into a busy schedule and parents may not even have to leave work or arrange for child care.
In addition to the telehealth services that parents may already be familiar with, there is another option available: teletherapy that eliminates the burden or requirement to travel to a brick-andmortar office for speech therapy services. Furthermore, with health organizations and insurers increasing opportunities for virtual speech therapy appointments, parents find it very appealing to schedule and conduct speech therapy from the comfort of home.
Teletherapy offers consistency and routine, with regularly scheduled virtual therapy sessions, leading to reduced anxiety about receiving assistance, and creating a solid routine for speech therapy services in a familiar environment.
PARENTS SHOULD ALSO LOOK FOR:
- 'Synchronous' one-on-one engagement with the speech therapist at a specific time, and 'asynchronous' "at-your pace" learning without the therapist live video component, at any time during the week, that extends the opportunities for continued progress following the visit.
- Customized services that match a child's specific issues or condition with a speech and language therapist who has specialized training in that area.
- Ease and consistency that accelerates the progress to reach goals faster.
GETTING STARTED
The right speech therapy program delivered virtually, will support the development of communication skills that help you and your child achieve communication goals — at home, at school and throughout life. Progress should be readily tracked as the child transitions from the difficulties of self-expression to the joys of meaningful communication that strengthen emotional growth.
Choosing the right programs and educational opportunities for your exceptional child is always a priority, whether it's virtual speech therapy, homeschooling, special education or other. Experienced clinicians are best positioned to deliver optimal results and healthy outcomes. •
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Avivit Ben-Aharon, MS ED., MA CCC SLP is the Founder and Clinical Director at Great Speech, Inc, a virtual speech therapy company founded in 2014. She is recognized as a trail blazer for nationwide virtual access to speech therapy, allowing anyone who is committed to improving their communication to receive expert services, regardless of location or scheduling limitations. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, US News and World Report, Miami Herald and more. She holds an undergraduate and a Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology from The City University of New York. She earned a Master of Science in Special Education and Teaching from Hunter College. Connect with her on LinkedIn or via email: avivit@greatspeech.com.