Improving Online Therapy for Students with Disabilities During Crises

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the lives of persons with disabilities (PWDs), especially in regions like the West Bank of the occupied Palestinian territory. According to a study titled "The double burden of COVID-19 and Israeli military rule on persons with disabilities in the West Bank of the occupied Palestinian territory," the pandemic has compounded existing barriers to accessing essential services for PWDs. This blog aims to provide insights for online therapy practitioners on how to better support students with disabilities during such crises.

Key Findings and Their Implications

The study conducted between March 2021 and October 2021 highlights several key barriers faced by PWDs:

• Access to Public Transportation: Lockdown measures and checkpoints severely restricted mobility, making it difficult for PWDs to access essential services.
• Access to Public Services: Many public buildings and services are not adapted for different types of disabilities, and the pandemic exacerbated these issues.
• Access to Health Services: The closure of outpatient clinics and the lack of essential medications were significant barriers.
• Economic Barriers: The pandemic worsened the already precarious financial situation of many PWDs, further limiting their access to services.

Recommendations for Practitioners

To improve online therapy services for students with disabilities, practitioners can implement the following strategies:

• Adaptation of Services: Ensure that online therapy platforms are accessible to students with various types of disabilities. This includes features like screen readers, subtitles, and sign language interpretation.
• Flexibility in Scheduling: Given the mobility restrictions, offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate students' needs.
• Resource Provision: Provide information and resources to students and their families on how to access essential services and support during crises.
• Collaborate with Local Organizations: Work with local NGOs and disability organizations to ensure that the needs of PWDs are met during emergencies.

Encouraging Further Research

The study underscores the importance of including PWDs in crisis planning and response. Practitioners are encouraged to conduct further research on:

• The long-term impacts of crises on PWDs.
• Effective strategies for remote therapy during emergencies.
• The role of local organizations in supporting PWDs.

By implementing these strategies and conducting further research, online therapy practitioners can significantly improve the quality of life for students with disabilities during crises.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The double burden of COVID-19 and Israeli military rule on persons with disabilities in the West Bank of the occupied Palestinian territory.