Does Online Speech Therapy Work? Pros, Cons & What to Expect

Many parents often ask me, as a practicing pediatric speech-language pathologist, if online speech therapy works. And my answer is – YES! Speech-language therapy sessions can be effectively provided remotely, as well!

Speech-language pathologists use the same clinical knowledge and tools to treat patients for both online and in-person sessions.

A child and family can benefit from online speech therapy in a multitude of ways!

Why More Families Are Choosing Online Speech Therapy in NYC

The most prominent benefit of online speech therapy in NYC is convenience, of course.

Your child and family can experience the power of individualized support while in the comfort of your own home. What is more awesome than that?

Receiving remote therapy can reduce the scheduling and traveling burdens. This leaves your child with more flexibility and freedom within their weekly schedules.

We are also able to provide online speech therapy across the entire state of New York. This helps improve accessibility to a wider range of patients, who may have been limited geographically.

Helping NYC Kids Succeed with Online Speech Therapy

For some children who may be undergoing intensive medical treatments or hospital stays, the benefits of online treatment options are priceless.

The ability to receive online therapy in the comfort of their own surroundings helps to reduce exposure to outside germs. Additionally, it provides flexibility and an added sense of security during a time that may be filled with unpredictable moments.

Similarly, a child who has experienced acute or chronic trauma may find the treatment within their home and remotely more appealing. A weekly routine of online speech therapy can help create a sense of comfort and safety.

Online speech therapy in NYC can help a child with a history of trauma reach goals smoothly, instead of providing experiences that may lead to unintentional re-traumization in less controlled environments (outside of the home).

For older neurodivergent children, remote speech therapy can be a lifeline and useful support for their growth in learning.

I have found in my personal speech pathology practice that many older, differently abled children with autism and ADHD prefer online speech treatment sessions.

I believe this is because online therapy provides them with structure and develops their sense of self. Online therapy also improves autonomous thinking, develops organizational skills, and importantly, provides speech therapy with minimal background distractions!

Young children who are differently abled enjoy highly motivational & visual digital learning games and activities. Young children are increasingly comfortable with digital communications, like FaceTime, in this ever-encompassing digital world.

It is important to note that online speech therapy is not passive learning. The therapist and student work together in real time within a beneficial synchronous learning environment that parallels natural communication rules.

Speech Therapy That Honors Your Family’s Rhythm

When working with infants, toddlers, and all young children, I take a very family-centered approach.

Online speech therapy allows me to observe the child and family in an unobtrusive way, sort of like being a fly on the wall. This allows me to observe the integrated dynamics of each family and where the children’s communication strengths lie. I can also work seamlessly with the child and family in their natural environments, while providing the most useful guidance, tips, and ‘tricks of trade’ to reduce present communication struggles.

I always tell parents, the greatest gift I can give you is the power and knowledge to communicate effectively with your child.

A speech-language pathologist can help you and your child become successful communication partners, together!

What Are the Limitations of Online Speech Therapy?

In my experience, there are a few cases in which I would recommend in-person sessions only.

For example, if your child has explored online speech therapy options, but you often observe that your child does not focus well on the call. It may be time to explore in-person options. Additionally, if your child demonstrates difficulty engaging with the clinician when online therapy is provided, then in-person therapy may be more appropriate for your child.

Online sessions can also be used for family training sessions and monthly team meetings. Additionally, they can be used to discuss and plan treatment goals and strategies as a therapeutic team for your child.

What Can You Expect from Online Speech Therapy in NYC?

As a child and parent engaging in online speech therapy, you can expect equal benefits and results as in-person therapy.

Each session is conducted by a licensed speech-language pathologist. Speech and language engaging activities and games are provided.

When engaging in online speech therapy, the tools are presented in an immersive digital experience. They can be just as motivating as in-person therapy.

In fact, sometimes teenagers enjoy this digital presentation, which is intrinsically motivating. Even better!

These online sessions are structured, developed by a licensed speech-language pathologist. They are highly motivating to children of all ages.

Online speech therapy in NYC provides highly effective therapy sessions, which naturally encompass desired goals. Some of these goals are improving focus (while reducing outside distractions) and providing highly motivating digital learning games.

Final Thoughts from a Speech-Language Pathologist

Online speech therapy can create an immersive learning environment. It provides increased motivation and improved independence in communication skills for all ages!

Chatty Child’s speech therapists provide creative and innovative remote therapy sessions across all of New York State. To book an online speech therapy assessment and treatment sessions with Heather Lynn Boerner MA CCC/SLP, please visit our website at: www.chattychild.com; email: info@chattychild.com; or call: 347 491 4451

Sincerely,

Heather Lynn Boerner MA CCC/SLP

Start Online Speech Therapy in NYC Today

At Chatty Child Speech & Occupational Therapy, we believe every child deserves to feel heard, understood, and empowered, no matter where they are. Our online speech therapy services bring expert support directly to your home, making it easier than ever to fit high-quality care into your family’s routine. With a focus on the whole child, we use evidence-based techniques, empathy, and personalized strategies to help your child grow in both communication and confidence.

From speech delays and articulation difficulties to social communication needs and feeding challenges, our experienced team provides flexible, engaging online sessions tailored to your child’s developmental stage.

Here’s how to get started with online speech therapy in NYC:

Schedule a free 15-minute phone call to share your concerns and learn how virtual therapy can support your child.
Book an initial evaluation and consultation to assess your child’s strengths and set individualized goals.
Begin ongoing teletherapy sessions customized to your child’s needs, with interactive tools and family support.
Watch your child thrive from home, building essential speech skills and growing in confidence along the way.

Additional Support Available at Chatty Child

In addition to our online speech therapy services, Chatty Child offers a range of supportive services designed to promote well-rounded development and empower families throughout the process:

Speech Therapy Services – Individualized support for children with speech delays, articulation challenges, language difficulties, and social communication needs.
InterAct – A theater-based therapy program that blends drama and communication techniques to help children develop expressive language through play.
Occupational Therapy – Focuses on enhancing fine motor abilities, sensory integration, and the skills needed for everyday activities.
Tutoring – Individualized academic support in reading, writing, and creative subjects to build skills and confidence in the classroom.
Functional Nutrition – Provides nutritional guidance aimed at supporting emotional regulation, energy, and whole-child wellness.
Consulting – Offers expert collaboration for parents, educators, and support teams working to meet a child’s unique developmental needs.
Programs – Creative and movement-based group classes that encourage learning, social growth, and self-expression.

About the Author: Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP

Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP, is a nationally certified and New York State licensed speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience helping children grow through individualized speech therapy in New York City. She is also a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher, a trauma-informed clinician, and a proud neurodiverse learner. Her personal journey as a differently-abled individual led her to found Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC, more than a decade ago.

In addition to her clinical work, Heather is the author of Carrie the Colorful Chameleon, a playful children’s book that promotes learning, confidence, and friendship. Inspired by her work as a speech-language pathologist, the book includes a teaching guide for parents and educators.

Heather and her team provide in-person services at the Chatty Child clinic in Tribeca, Manhattan, as well as virtual therapy throughout New York State, helping every child find their voice and thrive in their own way.

Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC

Creating Possibilities .. one child at a time ..

Chatty Child Provides Pediatric Speech & Occupational Therapy & Classes in Tribeca, Manhattan, NYC – In Person at 325 Broadway Suite 403 New York, NY 10007 & serving the entire state of New York including: NYC, Westchester, Hudson Valley, Long Island via online therapy in New York State.