Why Teletherapy is Better than Canceling
Many parents do not understand the effectiveness of teletherapy or aren’t sure how it will work for their child. The use of telepractice is supported by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the American Physical Therapy Association, and the American Occupational Therapy Association. Not all children are candidates for telepractice, but all families should give it a try to determine the effectiveness for your child and to learn ways to work toward therapy goals in your own home. It takes time to learn how to do this and one session is often not enough to teach a child to use the computer for therapy. We recommend in-person therapy when possible, but telepractice is very beneficial.
Here are a few examples of appropriate situations for teletherapy:
1. Illness in the family that does not affect the child’s ability to perform.
2. While on vacation
3. To avoid traveling a long distance multiple times per week for therapy
4. When more flexibility is needed
5. Save cost and money
Advantages:
1. It gives parents a better understanding of their child’s needs because they are involved in therapy sessions in their home environment.
2. Children achieve goals faster due to more practice at home.
3. Children are often motivated to complete therapy activities because they are interested in the computer.
4. Therapy should be consistent to show progress and teletherapy is available w
5. The effectiveness of teletherapy is well documented and research is being conducted more to prove the effectiveness.
6. Most children are good candidates for telepractice and it should be tried.
7. Teletherapy is often very effective and the therapists believe your child’s needs can be met with your assistance.
8. For those children who respond well to visual stimuli, it is a great way to provide this.
9. Any hands-on tasks may be completed during teletherapy sessions.
10. Teletherapy assists families to attend therapy appointments more consistently because it does not include driving when not possible.
11. Your child can receive therapy in the comfort of your home at times.
The SpOT Clinic is in business to help children by providing quality services in person and through teletherapy as needed. Our clinic managers are available to answer any questions that you may have regarding any services we provide. Please feel free to reach out to any of our clinics for more information.
Owens Cross Roads, AL (256) 517-9277
Melba Acey, Clinic Manager
Gulf Shores, AL (251) 200-4750
Shelly Alexander, Clinic Director/Manager
Madison, AL (256) 542-1970
Anna Kerrigan, Clinic Manager
