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
Recommended Citation
McCaslin, Brianne, "Zooming In on Teletherapy: The Benefits and Challenges of Virtual Speech, Language, and Aural Therapies" (2021). WWU Honors College Senior Projects. 482.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/wwu_honors/482
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