Everyone communicates. From babies to adults and everyone in between, communication is universal. Humans are social beings. So regardless of your language or cultural background, everyone has the innate desire to express their wants and needs and to establish meaningful relationships.
Speech-language pathologists (or speech therapists) are experts in helping people communicate more effectively. As mentioned in our previous blog posts, this can include speech therapy to help those with communication challenges such as articulation, language, and stuttering. Not only that, but speech-language pathologists also work with people who want to improve their communication so they can advance in their professional careers. These areas are not disorders, but some speech-language pathologists specialize in what is known as corporate speech pathology. This includes coaching in accent modification or public speaking.
If you need help in any of these areas related to communication, you may choose to go to an outpatient office at a hospital or private speech and language clinic. If you’ve had an accident or stroke, you may receive services at a rehabilitation center or skilled nursing facility. Some speech-language pathologists will even come to your home to work with you. A more flexible alternative to all of these options is to work with a speech therapist online. This means that you can work from the comfort of your own home, office, or wherever you may be. Online speech therapy and coaching offer the ultimate flexibility in working with a highly skilled communication professional.
If you are questioning whether online speech therapy is right for you, ask yourself these three questions:
1. Do I have the desire?
2. Do I have the skills?
3. Do I have the technology?
Desire means to hope for. Are you tired of people asking you to repeat yourself? Have you been overlooked for promotions at work because of poor communication skills? Do you lack confidence in social settings? These are just a few examples of sources of motivation. If you want to improve your communication for any reason, then you can answer “yes” to this first question.
Skills. The type of skills that are needed to participate in online speech therapy or coaching are simple:
- Basic computer skills, which include being able to use the internet and email.
- Being able to sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Being able to follow verbal instructions.
That brings us to technology. Technology is what differentiates online speech therapy from in-person speech therapy. Working with a speech-language pathologist online is so much like in-person that it is still referred to as “face-to-face.” This means that the speech therapist and client can see and hear each other live, just like an in-person meeting. So, what technology do you need to make this happen?
- Computer
- Webcam
- Microphone
- High-speed internet (Check your internet speed here: www.speedtest.net)
How did you do? Did you answer “yes” to all three questions, or just one? If you have the desire to improve your communication, we can help you learn the skills. If you have the skills to participate in online speech therapy, we can help you access the technology. If you have all three, then we can get started right away!
It all starts with you. If you want to make a difference in your life by unlocking your full potential, we are here to help! Call Online Speech Services today for your free consultation.