The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated the adoption of teletherapy for children on the autism spectrum. According to the research article "Practitioner and Service User Perspectives on the Rapid Shift to Teletherapy for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum as a Result of COVID-19," this rapid shift has presented both challenges and opportunities for practitioners and service users alike. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their teletherapy skills by implementing the research outcomes and encouraging further exploration in this area.
Key Findings and Practical Applications
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). Despite above-average ratings for technical quality, both service users and practitioners reported significant technical difficulties, such as poor internet connections and software issues.
- Actionable Tip: Ensure reliable internet connections and provide training for both practitioners and families to troubleshoot technical issues.
2. Teletherapy as a New Normal
Many families expressed a preference for continuing teletherapy even post-pandemic, citing benefits such as reduced travel and increased comfort for anxious children.
- Actionable Tip: Consider offering a hybrid model of service delivery that combines both in-person and teletherapy sessions.
3. Short Term Pain, for Long Term Gain
While teletherapy reduced travel time, it also increased planning and preparation time for practitioners. This additional time was mostly unbillable under the NDIS service agreements.
- Actionable Tip: Include preparation time in service agreements to ensure practitioners are compensated for their efforts.
4. The Shape of Service Delivery Has Changed
Teletherapy has increased parent involvement and shifted the focus to a capacity-building coaching approach. However, engaging young children through a screen remains challenging.
- Actionable Tip: Provide training for practitioners on coaching techniques and resource adaptation for the online environment.
5. Is Teletherapy Always an Option?
Barriers such as language differences, lack of technology, and family complexities were identified. Teletherapy was also less effective for goals requiring physical presence, such as fine motor skills and social skills groups.
- Actionable Tip: Assess the suitability of teletherapy on a case-by-case basis and consider offering multiple modalities, such as phone calls and emails, to improve engagement.
Conclusion
The rapid shift to teletherapy has brought both challenges and opportunities. While teletherapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it has proven to be a valuable tool for many families and practitioners. Ongoing research and training are essential to refine this model and ensure its efficacy in various contexts.
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.
