What is telepractice?
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association defines telepractice/teletherapy as:
“The application of telecommunications technology to the delivery of speech language pathology and audiology professional services at a distance by linking clinician to client/patient or clinician to clinician for assessment, intervention, and/or consultation.”
Simply put, it is direct classroom style instruction and direct client consultation online.
How does this work?
The student and the therapist meet in a secure online classroom, utilizing a webcam and headset with a microphone for a live and interactive speech therapy session. Some students may require assistance accessing the school’s provided computer or logging onto the secure online classroom. Once logged on, the speech-language pathologist will provide evidenced-based therapy aligning with the child’s Individualized Educational Program (IEP).
Is teletherapy effective?
Numerous studies on the effectiveness of online styled learning environments have been published since around 2001*. The overwhelming consensus is yes, teletherapy (and online learning as a whole) is an effective method of learning. Teletherapy is built on a child’s natural aptitude and curiosity towards new technology.
*(Grogan-Johnson, Alvares, Rowan, & Creaghead, 2010; Scheideman-Miller et al., 2002; McCullough, 2001; Grogan-Johnson et. al., 2011; Lewis et al., 2008; Waite et al., 2006).”
What kind of equipment do I need?
You will need:
An up to date computer
A high-speed internet connection
A headset with a microphone
A webcam
Adobe Acrobat (or a PDF reader of your choosing)
Who will we contact should there be an issue?
Each school has a NTR representative assigned to handle any questions or needs. Each representative has a direct supervisor that can be reached as well.
What about technical problems?
We have a help desk that can assist you with set up before your school therapy begins and will be available during business hours for all your technical needs.
What kinds of activities will the students take part in?
Our therapists have access the latest worksheets and interactive games to target the needs of each student. Any worksheet or game can be modified to a particular student’s needs.
Who will be delivering the speech services?
All of our therapists are licensed in the state where they live and in the state where they practice. All of our therapists must retain their Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), which includes mandatory annual continuing education units.
What about the student’s IEP and evaluations?
NTR has partnered with Pearson, a leading developer of standardized evaluations, in order to evaluate every student appropriately. Proper evaluations lead to an understanding of the student’s academic weaknesses and strengths allowing our therapists write goals that will enhance each student’s education. NTR therapists not only take part in the writing process of the IEP, but they are able to attend IEP meetings via the web or phone.
What if a parent has a question regarding their child’s therapy progress?
Parents have direct access to NTR therapists through email and phone. We are all a part of the student’s academic team and communication is paramount in that process!
Do teachers and therapists communicate?
Absolutely! Teachers and therapists communicate via email and phone just as they would in a brick and mortar school. Teachers are also welcome to meet with our therapist virtually if the need arises. Therapists, teachers, administrators, and parents work together to give each student a foundation for academic success.