The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically accelerated the adoption of teletherapy for individuals on the autism spectrum. A recent study titled "Practitioner and Service User Perspectives on the Rapid Shift to Teletherapy for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum as a Result of COVID-19" provides valuable insights that can help practitioners improve their teletherapy skills. This blog aims to summarize key findings and offer actionable recommendations based on the study's outcomes.
Key Findings from the Study
The study identified five major themes:
- Technology—Love It or Hate It
- Teletherapy as a New Normal
- Short Term Pain, for Long Term Gain
- The Shape of Service Delivery Has Changed
- Is Teletherapy Always an Option?
1. Technology—Love It or Hate It
The study found a strong positive correlation between technical quality and satisfaction with the level of support provided (r = 0.64, n = 772, p < 0.000). Both practitioners and service users reported that poor internet connection and difficulties with software platforms significantly impacted session success and engagement.
Actionable Tip: Ensure both you and your clients have access to reliable internet and user-friendly platforms. Consider providing training sessions to help families navigate the technology.
2. Teletherapy as a New Normal
Despite technical difficulties, many families found teletherapy to be just as effective as in-person services. Practitioners reported that some clients were more comfortable with the online platform.
Actionable Tip: Encourage families to continue teletherapy if they find it beneficial. Consider a hybrid model that combines in-person and online sessions to meet diverse needs.
3. Short Term Pain, for Long Term Gain
Practitioners noted a significant reduction in travel time, which allowed them to see more clients. However, they also reported increased planning and preparation time, which was often unbillable.
Actionable Tip: Plan for additional preparation time when setting up teletherapy services. Consider billing for this time if possible, or look for ways to streamline preparation activities.
4. The Shape of Service Delivery Has Changed
Teletherapy increased parent involvement, as parents had to become more engaged in the sessions. This led to a greater uptake of a capacity-building coaching approach.
Actionable Tip: Leverage the increased parent involvement to build a collaborative approach to therapy. Use coaching techniques to empower parents to support their child's development.
5. Is Teletherapy Always an Option?
Barriers to teletherapy included language barriers, lack of technology, and the complexities of home life during the pandemic. Some therapy goals, such as fine motor skills, were harder to achieve online.
Actionable Tip: Assess each client's suitability for teletherapy on a case-by-case basis. Consider alternative methods or additional support for families facing significant barriers.
Conclusion
While teletherapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it has shown promise in increasing access to therapy services. Ongoing training and support for practitioners, combined with reliable technology, can help make teletherapy a sustainable option for many families.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Practitioner and Service User Perspectives on the Rapid Shift to Teletherapy for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum as a Result of COVID-19.
