In-Home vs. Online Speech Therapy
What is Virtual Speech Therapy?
Online Speech Therapy is a specialized type of therapy that will help you or your loved one improve your language and communication skills. Bringing speech therapy to an online environment makes receiving support and guidance from an experienced speech and language pathologist easier and more convenient than ever.
Speech therapy can help with a wide variety of problems related to speech, language, and communication, such as reclaiming lost skills, helping a child who may be struggling to reach milestones or is falling behind in their development, improved clarity and confidence when speaking, or highlighting academic or professional abilities.
Virtual speech therapy can help one who may be struggling to connect with others deeply and meaningfully communicate with ease. As the world continues to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, the world of telehealth is growing. It is now as important as ever for speech therapists to practice online and provide their services in a safe, effective, and convenient manner.
No matter what speech and language goals you might have, online speech therapy is a great option for adults and children alike. Learn more about how online speech therapy works and whether it might be a good fit for you or your loved one by scheduling your free introductory call today!
What is the Difference Between In-Home Speech Therapy and Online Speech Therapy?
Both in-home and online speech therapy provide therapy in the client’s home, however, there are a few key differences in these services.
In-Home Speech Therapy means that the speech and language pathologist will conduct the appointment in person, in your own home.
Online speech therapy occurs when the patient and the speech therapist conduct their appointment online, through a video call.
While both options mean that the speech therapy appointment can occur in the comfort of the client’s own home, the experience and benefits of these two types of therapies can be quite different. Considering the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, many people may prefer to do their speech therapy online as it means reduced exposure and the ability to maintain one’s isolation or bubble preferences.
How does Online Speech Therapy work?
Online speech therapy begins with an introductory call, in which the consultant will determine whether speech therapy is a good fit for you. From there, you will be matched with a specialized speech therapist who will help you to identify your goals and design your customized therapy plan. While every speech therapy plan is unique and completely individualized, most speech and language pathologists will recommend a course of 12-week modules that include two 30-minute sessions per week.
What Are the Benefits of Online Speech Therapy?
Virtual speech therapy can be beneficial for children and adults alike. In fact, online speech therapy can help anyone who is wanting to improve or strengthen their speech, language, and communication skills.
Bringing speech therapy online is an excellent option for anyone who may benefit from time with an experienced speech-language pathologist. Not only do online services provide the same benefits and are as effective as traditional or in-home speech therapy, but they also allow for an even higher level of service, convenience, and customization.
Clients and therapists can connect and work together in any distraction-free space with an internet connection. Without the limitation of location, connecting with the most highly qualified and specialized therapists is easier and simpler than ever. Once you are matched with the best therapist to support you on your journey, that same therapist will be with you every step of the way.
For children, the added interest or novelty of working online and with technology can be great for building enthusiasm around their appointments. Online speech therapy for children also allows for the inclusion of a wide variety of online games and resources, which is great for injecting some fun and excitement into their therapy. Get started on your speech therapy journey by scheduling your free introductory call today!
What Are Some Online Speech Therapy Tips?
There are several things that you can do to make the most out of your time with your speech therapist. When you connect with your therapist for the first time, they will likely share their tips, suggestions, and best practices with you before beginning. Some other things to consider are:
Pick the Right Space: Ensure that the space you choose to use for your online speech therapy appointments has a comfortable place to sit, a strong internet connection, and limited distractions.
Equipment: Make sure you have a properly functioning webcam, a high-quality microphone, and a screen that’s large enough to see the therapist clearly, including any resources they may want to share. These are vitally important parts of a successful online speech therapy program.
Minimize Background Noise: At the time of your speech therapy appointment, it is important to make sure to reduce or eliminate background noise as well as you can. Background noise can be highly distracting, making it difficult for you to hear your therapist or for them to hear you. Reducing or eliminating background noise might mean turning off the tv or radio, asking other people in the home to be quiet and not to enter the room or interrupt the session, and eliminating other sources of noise such as air conditioners, loud fans, or other electronics.
Optimize your State of Mind: When you are preparing for a virtual speech therapy appointment, it is as important to prepare yourself mentally as it is to prepare your work area. Ensuring that you are calm and focused by centering yourself through deep breathing exercises or doing some gentle stretching or meditation can be an effective way to prepare the mind for listening, learning, and growth.
Final Thoughts
As we continue to navigate our way through a global pandemic, online health care and therapy practices have become more important and popular than ever. Online speech therapy is a very beneficial and effective way to receive support and guidance from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Bringing speech therapy online also allows for the ideal experience in customization and accessibility. From the location and timing of your appointments to your carefully selected therapist and personalized treatment plan, online speech therapy is the best choice for improving communication skills in 2022 and beyond.
At Great Speech, we are proud to provide the highest quality treatment and care in the safest and most convenient way possible. It has never been easier to connect with one of our highly qualified, passionate, and dedicated speech therapists. Begin your online speech therapy journey now by scheduling your free introductory call today!
