Why I Love Being a Teletherapist
When Coronavirus closed schools in 2020, and we all then began to do teletherapy in leu of in-person services, I was convinced that we could never do therapy as well virtually as we could in-person. Then we returned to school that August, with masks and plexiglass panels, and I thought: "teletherapy is actually better than this!" At least then I could see students' faces and hear them more clearly! For the next two years I carried a partial virtual caseload.
Then life threw a curveball, and I resigned from the schools. I ended up taking a position with a teletherapy company and providing services to various schools. I was hesitant at first, but after working as a teletherapist for six months, I can say I completely LOVE it!Comfort
Variety
Not all teletherapists have the variety I do, but I have students ranging from mild middle school students to non-verbal kindergarteners. I enjoy the different caseloads, although it does mean a bit more prep as there is more diversity in goals and materials. In the morning I get to talk about animal sounds, and in the afternoon I get to teach /r/, and the next day I'm teaching a great short story to work on language skills.
Use of Time
When I worked in the schools, a good part of my time was spent doing duty, attending teacher meetings, filling out paperwork required by the district, completing screenings I was unable to take any action on, performing before or after school requirements such as parent-teacher meetings whether or not I actually had any parents wishing to meet. Since I was on a contract, I was paid by year, and these times were all under a blanket "duties of the position" statement.
As a teletherapist, I am paid for indirect time as well as direct time. This differs somewhat from one teletherapy company from another, but from my, admittedly limited, experience, this is typical. I only attend meetings that directly affect my students. I feel like I am able to return back to my actual occupation!Freedom of Scheduling
Less Drama
Efficacy of Therapy
Now, do I think I can do therapy as well through a computer as I can in-person? Yes! Now, that being said, there are, of course, some caveats. The method of therapy should be considered for each client just as the time, length and frequency of therapy should be considered. Often, as my younger students have, a facilitator may be present to aid the client in attention and accessing the technology. Other clients may need a different service model that is more of a parent training model. A setup that includes a separate camera that shows the student's AAC device so you can see their key presses, or other modifications might be necessary. With flexibility and creativity, there really is a lot more you can do in teletherapy than you ever thought!
Drawbacks
I'm not necessarily writing this to convert any of ya'll from in-person therapists to teletherapists, but definitely, should it come to you, don't be afraid of it. It could be your next great thing!
Until next time, keep on clicking, my e-speechies!
Mrs. Speech
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