What Is Teletherapy? A Guide for Parents

What is teletherapy, and will it work for my child? It’s a common question. Families exploring speech-language therapy or academic support often ask it. Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center offers teletherapy alongside our in-person services. This gives families flexibility in how they access the same high-quality, individualized programs.

What Is Teletherapy?

Teletherapy refers to therapy provided by a licensed and certified therapist through a secure video connection. Modern technology allows clinicians to connect with clients no matter the distance. At ETLC, we offer one-on-one speech therapy sessions for children of all ages. We also offer reading and math skill-building sessions for individuals or small groups.

How Do Online Therapy and Tutoring Sessions Work?

During a tele-session, the SLP or instructor sends the family a secure meeting link. At the scheduled time, both parties log on and meet in an online room. The child and clinician can see each other and interact in real time. It feels almost like an in-person session.

The SLP or instructor shares their screen so the child can see activities prepared specifically for them. These activities closely mirror what happens in a face-to-face session. They’re just presented through different software tools. Often, the child can control the activity directly using a touch-screen or mouse.

Will Teletherapy Be a Good Fit for My Child?

Most kids do very well with teletherapy. Using a device comes naturally to most children today. If a child can benefit from services in a clinic setting, they can typically benefit from teletherapy too. Our providers use learning materials that feel like games. This keeps most children engaged and participating.

We recommend that parents or caregivers stay close by to observe, or even participate in the session. Every child learns differently. Some children benefit from having someone sit with them and participate. Others are independent and don’t need direct support during the session.

Very young children, kids who struggle to maintain attention, and children with special learning needs often do best with adult support nearby during tele-sessions. Teletherapy also creates a great opportunity for a parent coaching model. In this model, the therapist can guide you on activities to try with your child at home.

Will My Child Continue to Make Progress Toward Their Goals?

Yes. Children who need speech-language therapy or academic support benefit most from consistent access to services. Waiting to begin therapy is never recommended if you believe your child needs extra support. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) approved telepractice as an appropriate method of service delivery back in 2005. It remains a well-established, evidence-based option today.

We’re Here to Help

If you’d like more information about starting teletherapy for your child, contact our team at ETLC. We’re happy to help you decide whether teletherapy, in-person sessions, or a combination of both is the right fit for your family.