As more families and schools embrace online solutions, virtual speech therapy has become a vital part of how SLPs deliver care. Below, we explore why this shift matters, and how it’s transforming the profession.

 

Virtual speech therapy is no longer just a backup plan. It has become a powerful, flexible option for delivering high-quality care. For speech-language pathologists (SLPs), this shift brings new opportunities to reach clients, streamline services, and improve outcomes. Let’s take a closer look at why virtual speech therapy is a game-changer for today’s SLPs.

 

Why Virtual Speech Therapy Is a Game-Changer for SLPs

Rise in Demand for Online Speech Therapy After COVID

Teletherapy had been in use well before the pandemic, especially in rural or underserved areas where in-person services were harder to access. But COVID-19 rapidly accelerated its growth and mainstream adoption. As schools temporarily closed and clinics reduced in-person visits, virtual speech therapy became the most practical and immediate option for care.

What began as a temporary solution quickly proved to be both effective and sustainable. Families experienced the convenience firsthand, and many clinicians saw how well their clients responded in online settings. Today, the demand for online speech therapy continues to rise. Parents value the ability to connect from home, while clinicians appreciate the expanded reach and flexibility. Even as in-person sessions resume, virtual speech therapy remains a core part of many therapy programs.

Flexibility and Accessibility in Virtual Speech Therapy

Online speech therapy offers a level of flexibility that in-person sessions often can’t. For example, families no longer have to commute or rearrange their entire day to fit in a 30-minute session. Instead, appointments can happen from any quiet space at home. For working parents, this convenience is a major advantage.

Additionally, clinicians also benefit from a more flexible schedule. They can balance caseloads across different time zones or settings. For speech-language pathologists juggling multiple responsibilities, teletherapy opens up new ways to manage their workload and maintain consistent care.

The Expanding Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist Online

Teletherapy has pushed the role of the speech-language pathologist online in ways that go beyond direct treatment. SLPs are now designing interactive digital activities, collaborating with teachers, colleagues, and families remotely, and using virtual platforms to track progress and document outcomes.

These changes have expanded how SLPs support their clients. With tools like screen sharing, digital visuals, and live annotation, therapy sessions have become more interactive. SLPs can customize their approach in real time to better meet each client’s needs.

Growing Acceptance of Speech Therapy at Home

Before, speech therapy at home was once seen as a backup plan. Now, that perception is changing. Both schools and private practices are recognizing the value of virtual therapy as part of regular service delivery.

Home-based sessions allow for natural practice in familiar environments. Children can work on skills where they use them most, such as their kitchen, playroom, or family room. Parents and caregivers can observe or participate more easily, which strengthens carryover and builds trust.

School teams have also adapted. Many school systems now include virtual options in IEP meetings and therapy planning. What was once a workaround is becoming a standard offering.

Best Tools for Virtual Speech Therapy Sessions

Must-Have Speech Therapy Telepractice Tools

To run effective virtual speech therapy sessions, speech-language pathologists need a few basic tools. To start, a reliable headset with a built-in microphone helps ensure clear audio and minimizes background noise. This is especially helpful when working on articulation, where precision matters. Second, you’ll need a good webcam, which is equally important. Clear video is also important as it allows both the student and therapist to observe facial movements and model accurate sound production.

In addition to equipment, a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform is essential. Whether working in schools or private practice, therapists must protect student information. While some platforms are built specifically for healthcare, general options like Zoom can also be used safely when the correct privacy settings and agreements are in place.

Comparing Online Speech Therapy Platforms

There are several widely used platforms for conducting speech therapy online, and each offers different features. Zoom remains a common choice, particularly in schools, because of its ease of use, screen sharing, and accessibility across devices. For many clinicians, it simply works without much setup.

However, some SLPs prefer tools designed with therapists in mind. TheraPlatform, for example, includes features like session notes, billing support, and a client portal, all in one place. These extras can make workflow smoother, especially in private practice.

Meanwhile, options like SimplePractice or Doxy.me also meet compliance standards, though they may lack interactive tools that support therapy activities. Ultimately, the right platform depends on your setting, your budget, and how much integration you want between therapy and administration.

Favorite Digital Resources for Online Speech Therapy

Every clinician develops a few go-to resources that make therapy planning easier and sessions more engaging. As more therapy happens online, digital versions of those tools have become essential.

At Lighthouse Therapy, Founder Janet Courtney, MS, CCC/SLP has shared a few of her most-used, free digital resources. These are tools she continues to return to because they consistently support student engagement and make planning more efficient.

One standout is TweenTribune, a news site from the Smithsonian Institute. It offers a wide range of current articles in both English and Spanish, sortable by topic, grade level, and reading level. The site also allows educators to create classroom groups, assign articles, and track progress through built-in quizzes. In a therapy session, letting a student choose an article based on interest can lead to stronger engagement and more natural conversation.

Another favorite is epic! Books, a digital reading platform for children under 12. With access to thousands of books, audiobooks, and read-along videos, epic makes it easy to tailor reading selections to each student’s needs. Many of the texts come with built-in comprehension quizzes, which can be used to track growth or reinforce specific skills. Educators can sign up for free, with the option to upgrade for more access.

YouTube, when used with care and discretion, can also enhance virtual sessions. While some school filters limit access, many educational channels offer short, relevant videos that bring language concepts to life. Janet recommends previewing any video in advance and relying on curated lists like YouTube Channels for Elementary Students (available on Teachers Pay Teachers) to avoid time-consuming searches.

In addition to those tools, many SLPs turn to Boom Cards for interactive practice. These digital decks allow students to click, drag, and answer in real time, giving therapists valuable insight into progress. Google Slides is another staple, useful for organizing visuals and creating reusable lesson plans. Some therapists also use Jamboard, a virtual whiteboard that supports collaborative work like labeling, sequencing, and brainstorming.

Organizing Materials for Quick Session Prep

When sessions are back-to-back, staying organized becomes essential. Digital therapy requires a different kind of preparation, but the need for efficiency remains the same.

Many clinicians create folders in Google Drive or on their desktop, sorting them by theme, age group, or goal area. Having clear file names and consistent organization will help to streamline planning. Others use tools like Wakelet or Padlet to group links, videos, and slide decks by topic. Spreadsheets with clickable links are also a simple but effective solution.

At Lighthouse Therapy, we also maintain a Resources Page with more than 60 curated tools and materials. It’s updated regularly and open to community contributions. While tools may change over time, the rise of AI has been a game changer, offering faster planning, smart suggestions, and new ways to engage students. Still, keeping a system in place to track what works (and why) makes prep smoother and sessions more effective.

 

How to Conduct Online Speech Therapy Sessions Effectively

Step-by-Step Workflow for Speech Therapy Online

To begin, it helps to have a consistent workflow in place for each session. Having a structured routine not only supports student engagement, it also helps you stay focused on therapy goals.

Start by reviewing the student’s objectives and opening any materials you plan to use. These might include digital worksheets, Boom Cards, or reading passages. Test your audio and video ahead of time to avoid delays.

Next, greet the student and ease into the session with a brief check-in. A few minutes of casual conversation can help build rapport and set the tone. After that, clearly outline the plan for the session, using visuals if needed. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and keep students on task.

As the session unfolds, aim to rotate activities every few minutes to maintain attention. Use a variety of input such as visuals, games or reading passages to keep the format fresh. Then, close out with a quick review and preview of what’s ahead.

Finally, take a few minutes right after the session to record what you covered, any progress observed, and notes for the next visit. Keeping this process consistent ensures better continuity of care.

Using Session Templates and Visuals for Engagement

One of the easiest ways to improve session quality is to rely on templates. A well-made template serves as both a guide and a timesaver.

In general, templates include a simple opening routine, one or two main tasks, and a closing reflection. You can tailor these based on goal areas, such as articulation, grammar, or social language, and reuse them across clients.

To support attention and understanding, visuals are also important. These might include illustrated vocabulary cards, virtual timers, or step-by-step charts. Even a digital visual schedule can help students stay oriented. Templates and visuals together create a predictable rhythm that reduces distractions and increases participation.

Privacy and Compliance in Remote Speech Therapy

Just as important as engagement is maintaining student privacy and compliance with legal standards.

Start with the platform itself. Make sure you’re using a secure, HIPAA-compliant video tool such as Zoom for Healthcare, Doxy.me, or TheraPlatform are widely used. Before beginning services, obtain informed consent from families. This should explain how sessions will be delivered, what privacy measures are in place, and how data will be handled.

It’s also worth checking the physical environment. Encourage caregivers or school staff to find a quiet, private spot where the student can focus without interruptions. Remind families and schools not to record the session unless it’s part of an agreed-upon therapy plan.

These small steps go a long way in protecting the integrity of your services.

Using Progress Monitoring Tools to Stay On Track

Once sessions are running smoothly, the next priority is tracking student progress. Ongoing monitoring ensures that therapy is effective and that students are moving toward their goals.

There are a variety of digital tools that can help. Some SLPs use progress-monitoring spreadsheets, while others rely on apps like SLP Now or Babcock’s SLP Toolkit. During the session, keep data collection straightforward. You might tally correct responses, use a quick rubric, or jot notes in real time.

To make this easier, many clinicians use split screens or two monitors – one for presenting materials and the other for data. At the end of each week, a short review of your notes can help you adjust your approach and prepare for any IEP updates or parent meetings.

Tips for Managing Screen Sharing and Tech Setup

Finally, a good session depends on clean, dependable tech. The more prepared you are, the smoother the experience will be for both you and the student.

Before each session, close out extra browser tabs, silence notifications, and double-check your internet connection. Have a backup plan in place. This could be an alternate device or even a phone hotspot in case your primary setup fails.

When sharing your screen, choose simple, uncluttered materials. Zoom in to highlight the part you’re discussing and pause frequently to check for understanding. Invite students to interact using drag-and-drop activities or drawing tools, if the platform allows.

And when something goes wrong (as it inevitably will) model calm problem-solving. Shift to a backup activity or reconnect using a simpler tool. The goal is to keep the session moving forward, even when the tech doesn’t cooperate.

 

Strategies for Engaging Children in Virtual Speech Therapy

Tailoring Teletherapy Engagement by Age Group

To begin with, understanding the developmental needs of different age groups can help guide how you structure and deliver virtual speech therapy sessions. What works for a preschooler may not hold the attention of a middle school student. That’s why adapting engagement strategies by age is an essential part of delivering effective online speech therapy.

For younger children, short bursts of activity work best. Sessions may include songs, movement games, and simple visuals to support comprehension. Frequent changes in activity every few minutes help maintain attention. Therapists working with this age group often benefit from a mix of play-based techniques and familiar routines.

In contrast, older students may benefit more from structured tasks and goal-oriented activities. They’re often more responsive to visuals with embedded text, real-world content, and a clear purpose. While you can still incorporate games, older learners typically respond well when they understand the “why” behind each task.

Adolescents, in particular, may need space to feel some autonomy. Providing choices or asking for their input can support buy-in and accountability. Across all ages, pacing matters and so does knowing when to pivot.

Using Gamified Tasks and Movement Breaks

Once a session begins, sustaining attention becomes the next challenge. Gamifying therapy activities can improve engagement and help students stay focused longer.

Adding simple game mechanics, such as earning points, choosing a virtual reward, or unlocking a bonus round, can transform basic tasks into motivating challenges. Sound effects, digital spinners, and interactive timers also create an immersive experience without requiring complex tools.

In addition, regular movement breaks are essential, especially for younger students or those with sensory needs. A short stretch, a freeze dance, or a quick scavenger hunt can refresh focus. Many therapists plan these breaks into the session flow so they feel purposeful, not disruptive.

Research also supports the use of visual reinforcement systems, such as token boards or checklists. These tools offer a concrete sense of progress and help students self-monitor their behavior and participation.

Personalizing Virtual Speech Therapy Activities

In many cases, a child’s engagement improves significantly when the content feels familiar or personally meaningful. For this reason, incorporating a student’s interests into therapy is a simple but effective way to build connection and attention.

For example, if a child loves animals, you might use animal-themed vocabulary decks or videos. A student who enjoys cooking might respond well to sequencing tasks built around recipes or meal prep steps. Even small customizations, like using the student’s name in sample sentences, can create a sense of ownership.

Moreover, letting students choose between two or three tasks gives them a voice in the session while still keeping you in control of the direction. Personalization doesn’t require fancy resources; it simply means noticing what matters to the student and weaving that into the work.

Involving Families in Online SLP Sessions

Another important engagement strategy involves the family or school staff/facilitators. In teletherapy, caregivers are often just a few feet away. With thoughtful communication, they can become active partners in the therapy process.

Start by explaining the purpose of each activity. Share how it connects to broader goals and offer simple suggestions for follow-up during the week. Some families may benefit from modeled strategies or a short list of phrases they can reinforce at home.

When families and facilitators know what to look for, they’re more likely to notice progress and support generalization. Over time, this can increase carryover of skills from therapy to daily life.

That said, it’s important to stay flexible. Some caregivers are eager to be involved; others may be managing multiple responsibilities. Offering different levels of involvement ensures that support feels collaborative, not burdensome.

When to Switch Things Up: Off-Screen and Hands-On Activities

Despite your best planning, every therapist has sessions where things begin to fall flat. When that happens, it’s often a sign to shift gears.

Incorporating off-screen or hands-on activities can make a big difference. Ask students to find a real object, draw a picture, or act something out. These tasks reduce screen fatigue and increase sensory engagement.

For example, a student working on prepositions might place toys around the room while following your verbal directions. Another might draw a character from a story and use it to retell key details. These low-tech strategies are especially helpful when working with students who struggle with sustained attention or benefit from tactile learning.

Knowing when to adjust your approach comes with experience. Still, building flexibility into your session plan allows you to meet the student where they are—whether they’re tuned in and ready or tired and restless.

 

Improving Client Outcomes in Virtual Speech Therapy

Tracking Progress and Updating Goals in Online Speech Therapy

To improve outcomes in virtual speech therapy, it helps to begin with clear progress tracking. Regular data collection ensures that therapy remains goal-driven and responsive to the student’s needs. Whether you’re using tally sheets, digital rubrics, or an online platform, having a consistent method allows you to measure small changes over time.

At the same time, goals should be reviewed and updated regularly. If a student is mastering a target more quickly than expected, or if a goal is no longer appropriate, it’s important to adjust your plan. Scheduling brief check-ins with caregivers or case managers can also support alignment and transparency. When progress is documented clearly, decisions about next steps become easier and more collaborative.

Building Consistency Through Visuals and Repetition

Alongside tracking, consistency plays a key role in helping students retain and apply new skills. One way to build that consistency is through the use of visuals. Digital schedules, icons, anchor charts, and cue cards provide structure and reduce cognitive load. They also support students who benefit from visual learning and routine.

In addition to visuals, repetition is essential. Rather than introducing something new every session, revisit key targets in slightly different formats. For example, a student practicing /s/ blends might work on the same words in a game one day and during a story retell the next. Over time, this layered exposure builds familiarity and confidence.

Coaching Families to Extend Speech Therapy at Home

Beyond the session itself, involving families can have a major impact on student success. In virtual settings, caregivers are often close by and can be part of the process in meaningful ways.

Start by offering simple, practical suggestions that fit easily into daily routines. This might include pointing out speech sounds during a bedtime story, practicing target words while brushing teeth, or using a visual cue during transitions. Even just a few minutes of intentional practice at home can reinforce the skills introduced during therapy.

To support this, consider sending short follow-up emails after sessions or sharing a quick recap video. These touches keep families in the loop and provide them with tools to help their child in between sessions.

Encouraging Carryover Between Sessions

Of course, one of the ongoing challenges in speech therapy (whether in-person or virtual) is carryover. Helping students apply their skills outside of therapy takes time and planning. However, it’s possible to build this into your routine with small adjustments.

For instance, you might end each session by asking the student where they’ll try using a new skill that week. A child working on conversation starters might plan to practice during lunch or at recess. You can also introduce “home challenges,” which are simple, one-step tasks that students complete before the next session.

By anchoring practice in real-life settings, students begin to generalize their progress more naturally. These small steps add up over time and help bridge the gap between structured therapy and everyday communication.

Setting Realistic Expectations for Online Speech Therapy Goals

Finally, keeping expectations realistic helps both you and your clients stay grounded. Virtual speech therapy has many advantages, but it also has limits. Some students may need more time to reach milestones due to attention challenges, technology issues, or the need for frequent breaks.

Rather than aiming for rapid gains, focus on steady growth. Set goals that are achievable and clearly defined. This builds momentum and helps students and families see progress.

In addition, recognize that therapy online may require different pacing than in person. A student who might manage a full 45-minute session in a clinic could need shorter, more targeted segments on a screen. Adjusting to the rhythm of virtual work ensures that students stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.

 

Common Challenges in Virtual Speech Therapy and How to Solve Them

Managing Tech Issues in Virtual Speech Therapy

One of the most common hurdles in virtual speech therapy is managing technical issues. Unstable internet connections, audio delays, or software glitches can interrupt the flow of a session and make communication harder for both the client and the clinician.

To reduce disruptions, it’s helpful to have a clear tech routine. Begin each session with a quick audio and video check. If a problem arises, try switching to a lower-bandwidth option, like turning off the camera briefly or using a phone call as a backup. Keeping instructions for caregivers on hand, such as how to reconnect to the platform, can also save time during a session.

When possible, prepare a low-tech activity that doesn’t rely heavily on screen sharing. Having a printable backup or a simple verbal game allows the session to continue even when the platform isn’t cooperating. Over time, these routines make tech issues easier to navigate.

Addressing Short Attention Spans and Screen Fatigue

Another challenge in online speech therapy is keeping students engaged, particularly when attention spans are short. Screen fatigue can build quickly, especially for younger learners or those with executive functioning difficulties.

To help with this, vary the pace of your sessions. Alternate between passive and active tasks. For example, after a listening activity, follow up with something interactive—like a drawing prompt or a game involving movement. Even a one-minute physical break can help reset focus.

Additionally, keep the visual layout of your materials clean and simple. Cluttered slides or overly complex games can lead to frustration. When sessions feel manageable and structured, students are more likely to stay engaged.

Therapists often find that starting with a short, familiar routine like a greeting song or visual schedule, helps anchor students and provide a sense of comfort. Building in small choices can also give students a sense of control, which supports focus.

Supporting Sensory and Behavioral Needs Virtually

Virtual settings pose unique challenges when supporting clients with sensory sensitivities or behavioral needs. The lack of physical proximity means therapists must rely more heavily on observation and coaching.

Begin by discussing with caregivers or facilitators what typically works at home or in the classroom. Knowing which strategies help with regulation, whether that’s a weighted blanket, a fidget tool, or a specific calming phrase, can shape your approach.

You can also create a shared visual regulation chart with the student. This lets them point to how they’re feeling and what might help. For some students, offering choices during the session can reduce stress and support behavior. For example: “Do you want to start with the story or the game?”

In cases where a student becomes overwhelmed, it’s important to model flexibility. Pause the session, offer a sensory break, and calmly revisit the task when the student is ready. Over time, these practices build trust and predictability.

Handling No-Shows, Cancellations, and Last-Minute Tech Issues

Logistical disruptions, such as last-minute cancellations or no-shows, can affect both productivity and progress. Although some unpredictability is part of working with families, having clear procedures can help reduce its impact.

Start by setting expectations early. Share your cancellation policy up front, along with contact information for emergencies. Confirm sessions the day before when possible, especially for families navigating complex schedules.

When a cancellation does happen, try to use the time productively. You might document recent sessions, prepare materials, or follow up with families. For repeated no-shows, consider scheduling a brief meeting to understand the root of the problem and offer flexible solutions if needed.

If tech issues are the cause, work with the caregiver to troubleshoot during a non-session time. Offering a short “practice session” for setup can prevent problems during actual therapy.

Turning Common Challenges into Opportunities: Case Examples

Even when things go wrong, virtual speech therapy sessions often present unexpected opportunities. For instance, one therapist shared a story about a student whose internet cut out mid-session. Instead of ending early, they finished the lesson by phone, using household items for a scavenger hunt articulation activity. The student stayed engaged, and the caregiver gained a new way to support carryover at home.

In another case, a student became overstimulated during screen-based activities. Rather than pushing through, the therapist shifted the focus to guided breathing and co-created a visual calm-down chart. That chart later became part of every session, giving the student a way to advocate for their needs.

These moments remind us that flexibility, communication, and trust are central to success in virtual therapy. When clinicians respond with calm, creative solutions, challenges can turn into meaningful progress.

 

Telepractice Guidelines for Speech-Language Pathologists

Understanding Licensing and Location Rules for SLP Teletherapy

To begin with, speech-language pathologists must ensure they are properly licensed in any state (or country) where their clients reside. In most cases, licensure depends not on the clinician’s location, but on the client’s physical location during the session.

This requirement can complicate service delivery, especially for families who travel or move across state lines. Therefore, it’s essential to confirm where the client will be during each session and maintain records that reflect this information. The use of temporary practice permits or interstate compacts, such as the ASLP-IC (Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact), can help streamline licensing for SLPs practicing in multiple states. However, this compact is still in progress and not yet fully implemented in all jurisdictions.

To stay compliant, check with the relevant state boards before providing services. When in doubt, it’s better to verify the rules than risk practicing without proper authorization.

Documentation and Billing Best Practices in SLP Telepractice

In addition to meeting licensing requirements, maintaining accurate and timely documentation is a core part of effective teletherapy practice. Whether you work in schools, private practice, or a healthcare setting, your session notes should clearly reflect the goals targeted, the methods used, and the student’s response to each activity.

For billing purposes, it’s important to indicate that services were delivered via telepractice. Many payers, including Medicaid and private insurers, require specific billing codes or modifiers for virtual sessions. Failing to include the correct information can lead to denied claims or compliance concerns.

Moreover, documentation should also include details about any technical issues that impacted the session. If part of a session was missed due to connectivity problems, noting that in the record helps clarify service delivery and supports accurate billing.

Staying organized with templates or digital forms can simplify this process. By streamlining documentation, SLPs can focus more time on planning quality sessions and less time managing paperwork.

Using HIPAA-Compliant Tools and Workflow Tips

Security remains a top priority in virtual care. All platforms used for teletherapy must meet HIPAA standards for privacy and data protection. This means selecting tools that include encryption, secure login procedures, and access controls.

Platforms such as Zoom for Healthcare, Doxy.me, and TheraPlatform are commonly used by SLPs and meet these requirements when configured correctly. It’s also important to use secure systems for storing client records, sending email communications, and completing documentation.

In terms of workflow, creating a checklist for each session can help maintain compliance. This might include steps such as confirming client identity, documenting verbal consent, or logging session times. These small details help create a routine that supports both clinical quality and legal protection.

Setting Professional Boundaries and Communicating with Families

In teletherapy, the lines between personal and professional environments can sometimes blur. For this reason, clear communication and firm boundaries are essential.

Start by outlining expectations during the intake process. Let families and schools know when and how you can be reached, how cancellations should be handled, and what your policy is for joining late. If your sessions are being recorded or monitored, be transparent about that from the start.

It’s also helpful to create a virtual “therapy space.” Even if you’re working from home, using a neutral background and dressing professionally can help set the tone. For students, encourage the use of a quiet, consistent space that supports focus and privacy.

When families know what to expect and feel informed, they’re more likely to support the process. In turn, this allows the therapist to maintain their professional role while fostering strong working relationships.

Key Telepractice Guidelines from ASHA for SLPs

Finally, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) offers clear guidelines for telepractice that all clinicians should follow. These guidelines emphasize that teletherapy must meet the same standards of care as in-person therapy. This includes everything from accurate assessment and goal setting to ethical behavior and cultural responsiveness.

ASHA also stresses the importance of using evidence-based practices and ensuring that telepractice is appropriate for the individual client. Not every student may benefit from virtual services in the same way, and part of the clinician’s role is to evaluate whether the format is effective.

Additionally, ASHA recommends that SLPs complete training or coursework in telepractice before delivering services. This helps ensure that clinicians are familiar with the technology, privacy rules, and best practices unique to online therapy.

By staying aligned with ASHA’s guidance, SLPs can feel confident that their teletherapy practices are ethical, effective, and defensible.

 

Final Tips and Resources for Virtual SLP Success

As you continue to refine your approach to virtual speech therapy, it helps to revisit the core best practices that support meaningful progress. Clear session planning, consistent data tracking, personalized engagement strategies, and compliance with licensing and privacy rules all form the foundation of effective online care. Equally important is flexibility: both in how you deliver therapy and in how you respond to the unique needs of each student.

Staying connected to a professional community can also make a difference. Many SLPs working in virtual settings find support and new ideas through online groups, local meetups, or professional networks. Sharing resources, asking questions, or simply hearing from others who understand the challenges of remote work can help reduce isolation and strengthen your practice.

If you’re looking for tools to support your work, there are many free and low-cost digital resources available. Sites like Boom Learning, epic! Books, and TweenTribune offer content that’s easy to adapt for different age groups and goal areas. You can also explore curated lists from organizations like Lighthouse Therapy or check platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers for ready-made visuals, games, and lesson plans.

Finally, continued learning is essential. ASHA and other professional organizations offer telepractice training, webinars, and CEU courses to help you stay current with research and regulations. As the field evolves, investing time in your own growth ensures that you can continue providing high-quality care—no matter where or how you work.

Although virtual therapy comes with its own set of challenges, it also offers real opportunities. With the right tools and a thoughtful approach, speech therapy online can be just as impactful as in-person sessions, sometimes even more so. By staying grounded in your clinical expertise and open to new possibilities, you can thrive in this evolving space.

If you’re looking for support along the way, companies like Lighthouse Therapy offer built-in community, mentorship, and access to resources designed specifically for virtual clinicians. To learn more about joining a team that prioritizes flexibility, quality care, and clinician well-being, visit our Careers page and explore current opportunities.