Senior Project Advisor

Kimberly Peters

Document Type

Project

Publication Date

Spring 2021

Keywords

Teletherapy, speech/language therapy, aural rehabilitation, Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the advantages and disadvantages of teletherapy in the field of communication sciences and disorders. Previous research has been conducted on this subject regarding teletherapy for individuals in rural areas, or those with mobility challenges, that would normally not have access to in-person therapy. However, this study is important in furthering this research because clients are now required to attend teletherapy sessions in response to the new guidelines surrounding our global pandemic. To collect data, three surveys were distributed: the first to clients and their families who were the recipients of teletherapy services, the second to clinicians and returning graduate students, and the third to first year graduate students who were the providers of teletherapy services at Western Washington University’s Speech-Language-Hearing clinic. Peoples’ experiences with teletherapy compared to in-person therapy sessions were assessed, providing a surface-level description of the perceived effectiveness of virtual compared to traditional therapy, and benefits and challenges encountered. Results indicated mixed reviews, depending on the individual and their situation. Possible solutions to problems and future projections regarding teletherapy are discussed. This study is not comprehensive, but is meant to highlight some of the broader themes on the strengths and weaknesses of teletherapy. Further research needs to be conducted.

Department

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)

Speech therapy--Communication systems; Communication in rehabilitation--Technological innovations; COVID-19 (Disease)--Social aspects; Zoom (Electronic resource)

Subjects - Names (LCNAF)

Western Washington University

Genre/Form

essays; questionnaires

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

Share

COinS