How Does Remote Speech Therapy Work for Stroke Rehabilitation? - Podcast
Updated: Aug 25
In this article we will discuss:
Speech therapy has proved to be effective for stroke survivors to regain their communication skills. Unfortunately, not everyone can spend several hours traveling to an outpatient facility to attend a speech therapy session.
In this episode of Strokecast podcast, we discuss how remote speech therapy works, how it helps, and when remote therapy doesn’t make sense. Listen to the podcast using the player below:
Episode highlights
There are three common speech challenges after a stroke:
Aphasia - the trouble finding words;
Apraxia - a challenge of getting the words in the right order;
Dysarthria - having trouble with the mechanics of speech, e.g. tongue, larynx, jaw, and lip movements.
Many different elements have to come together and have to work properly for us to be able to speak: figuring out what words we want to say, then figuring out how to put them in the right order for our language and grammar and to physically move all the different parts of our mouth - and any one of those can fail in a stroke.
Having trouble with speech after a stroke?
What are the benefits of remote speech therapy after a stroke?
With online speech therapy, there’s no more waiting. For somebody who had a stroke and is now back in their home environment, going for therapy can be fatiguing: the entire process of going, being in the waiting room, and having to wait for your therapist and then transition back into the car back home.
With online speech therapy, family members can be involved in speech therapy. In clinics, you might not have the ability to have family members come into the clinic, or they might not be able to go into the therapy room with you. When you’re remote, family members can listen, can participate in that therapy session, and they’re all getting the information to help the individual that is seeking the therapy treatment.
But like with anything, there are times when it’s completely appropriate to have an in-person therapist. Some things to take into consideration include the level of safety and level of care that a person needs, or a person's ability to engage with technology.
At Better Speech, we offer online speech therapy services convenient for you and tailored to your child's individual needs. Our services are affordable and effective - get Better Speech now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stroke survivors really make progress with speech therapy done remotely?
Yes, research shows that teletherapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many stroke survivors. The key is consistency and a skilled therapist who tailors exercises to your specific deficits, whether that involves aphasia, apraxia, or dysarthria. Remote sessions also let you practice in your own home environment, which can actually support better carryover of skills.
What technology do I need to participate in remote speech therapy after a stroke?
Most people only need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and a reliable internet connection. Your therapist will walk you through any platform setup before your first session. Better Speech uses a simple, secure video platform that does not require any special downloads, making it accessible even for those who are not very tech-savvy.
How soon after a stroke should therapy begin?
The earlier the better. Research consistently shows that starting speech therapy as soon as a person is medically stable leads to better outcomes. Remote therapy is especially helpful here because it removes transportation barriers and allows treatment to begin quickly. Many survivors start within days or weeks of their stroke, which is the most critical window for recovery.
Will my insurance cover online speech therapy for stroke rehabilitation?
Many major insurance plans do cover teletherapy for stroke rehabilitation, though coverage details vary. Better Speech offers licensed, insurance-ready care with no waitlists, so you can get started quickly without navigating long delays or confusing paperwork on your own. It is always a good idea to verify your specific benefits before scheduling your first session.
What does a typical remote speech therapy session look like for a stroke survivor?
Sessions usually last 45 to 60 minutes and are led by a licensed speech-language pathologist who focuses on your individual goals. You might work on naming objects, following directions, strengthening the muscles used for speech, or practicing conversational skills. Your therapist will also give you home exercises to practice between sessions, which plays a big role in how quickly progress is made.
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
