Telehealth Speech Pathology: How Online Speech Therapy Works for Children and Adults

claire2876

Sep 26

3 min read

Communication is part of almost everything we do: sharing ideas, making friends, learning at school, asking for help and taking part in family and community life. Speech Pathologists support people with communication, language, speech sounds, literacy, social communication, voice, fluency and swallowing.

For many families and adults, finding a Speech Pathologist nearby can be difficult, particularly in regional and rural areas. Telehealth speech pathology is one way to access support from home. South Coast Therapy & Support Group now provides telehealth Speech Pathology to people across Australia, alongside in-person AHA sessions at our Nowra clinic and community-based services across the Shoalhaven and Illawarra.

What Is Telehealth Speech Pathology?

Telehealth speech pathology is a session delivered by secure video call. Your Speech Pathologist sees and hears you (or your child) on screen, and uses interactive activities, games, shared screens, books and everyday objects to work towards individual goals.

Areas Telehealth Speech Pathology May Support

Depending on individual needs, telehealth sessions may support:

• Early language, such as first words, following instructions and building sentences

• Speech sounds and clarity

• Social communication, conversation and play skills

• Literacy foundations, such as sound awareness and early reading skills

• Stuttering and fluency

• Parent and carer coaching for everyday communication at home

• Adults working on communication goals for daily life, work or community participation

Your Speech Pathologist will discuss whether telehealth is appropriate for your goals. Some areas, such as certain swallowing assessments, may need to be completed in person or with additional supports.

Every session is tailored, but a typical telehealth speech pathology session may include:

• A warm-up chat or game to settle in

• Interactive on-screen activities designed around goals

• Practising skills using toys, books or items from home

• Coaching for parents and carers so they can use strategies throughout the week

• A quick recap and ideas to practise before the next session

For younger children, a parent or carer usually sits nearby to help with attention, positioning and practice activities. Many families find this involvement helps them feel confident using strategies in everyday moments, like mealtimes, bath time and car trips.

Practical Reasons People Choose Telehealth

Some of the practical advantages of telehealth speech pathology may include:

• No travel time, parking or waiting rooms

• Sessions in a familiar space, which some children and adults find more comfortable

• Easier scheduling around school, kinder, work and family commitments

• Carers, grandparents or support workers can join from another location

• Access to a Speech Pathologist regardless of your postcode

Setting Up for Success

You do not need to be a technology expert. A few simple steps can help sessions run smoothly:

• Choose a quiet space with good lighting and minimal distractions

• Use a laptop or tablet where possible, as larger screens are easier for activities

• Check your internet connection and charge your device before the session

• Have a small selection of toys, books or items ready if your therapist suggests them

• Join a few minutes early so there is time to sort out any sound or camera issues

Our team will send you everything you need, including a secure link and a quick guide before your first appointment.

About South Coast Therapy & Support Group

South Coast Therapy & Support Group is an award-winning regional allied health organisation, recognised as Business of the Year, Employer of Choice, for Excellence in Innovation and as one of the Top 5 Best Places to Work in Australasia. We provide Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy and Allied Health Assistant services from our Nowra clinic, in the community and through telehealth nationally. Guided by our values of Compassion, Innovation, Collaboration, Growth and Community, we put people first and work alongside families at every step.

Getting Started

You can self-refer or be referred by your GP, Paediatrician, school, early childhood service, Support Coordinator or another health professional. Our team will contact you to talk about your goals, funding options and how telehealth sessions work.

Make a referral at sctherapysupport.au/make-a-referral or call (02) 4421 6013.

Because great therapy is about connection, not location.

This content provides general information only and does not replace individualised advice from a qualified health professional. Telehealth may not be suitable for everyone. Please contact our team to discuss whether it suits your needs.