What is teletherapy?

 

Teletherapy is a format of providing therapy through a live video connection. Instead of sitting in the same room, the client and Speech Language Therapist (SLT) interact via live video conferencing. If you’ve ever used Skype or FaceTime, you’ve used the same type of technology that teletherapy uses.  The SLT provides the same input as they would in person, it’s just done through a computer.  During therapy sessions, the client and therapist can see, hear, and interact with one another in real time, using webcams and a live, synchronous online learning environment. Our SLTs use traditional therapy techniques and activities and enhance these through software and tools to keep the client engaged in the therapy session.

 

The focus of the teletherapy sessions might be the SLT working with the client and completing a set of engaging and interactive therapy activities through the computer. Alternatively, it may be that it would work better for the client to work with a family member who is supported and guided by the SLT. This is particularly relevant for working with young children and when supporting their engagement and interaction.  

 

What can I expect if I would like to try teletherapy?

 

• Your SLT will send you a link to join your teletherapy session, Auckland Speech Therapy therapists are currently trialling both ‘Zoom’ and ‘GotoMeeting’ so you may want to download one of these apps. You will click on the link prior to the appointment time and the SLT will join you online when it is time to start your session.

 

• Although you are able to access teletherapy through most devices, it is recommended that you use either a laptop or desktop computer so that you have a good screen size and can sit up at a table or desk while engaging in teletherapy.

 

• It is advised that you do teletherapy in a space that has minimal or no background noise and other distractions.

 

• For children’s SLT sessions, it is recommended that a parent/caregiver is also present.

 

• Often teletherapy sessions can be shorter than face to face sessions, your SLT will advise you on what they think might be appropriate. Due to the flexibility of teletherapy, it maybe that you end up having two 30 minute sessions in a week rather than a one hour session.

 

 

Please contact us if you would like to  discuss teletherapy options or have any further questions.