What is Virtual Therapy?

By: 
Shannon McClintock
Physical Therapist
at Ladder Health

Ladder Health offers pediatric physical, occupational, and speech therapy in a virtual setting that mirrors the family-focused structure of early intervention while offering wrap-around technological support. We help children birth to six years of age meet their developmental milestones and grow to their full potential. Our model combines the accessibility of a virtual platform with the effectiveness of a family-centered care model. 

How is Ladder Health Different Than In-Person Therapy?

In-person pediatric therapy can generally be found at outpatient clinics and through early intervention. Outpatient pediatric therapists generally provide hands-on treatment directly to the child within the clinic setting. Parents may be instructed on exercises to carry over at home and may or may not be present during the treatment session. Many early intervention agencies utilize in-person parent coaching to directly practice skills within the child’s home environment. The parent provides hands-on instruction to the child while the service provider gives feedback to the parent.

At Ladder Health, we harness the power of parent coaching and caregiver-mediated intervention in a virtual setting. Virtual therapy ensures that parents are empowered to provide natural learning opportunities to their children without the need for an in-person provider. Because our providers are not driving from house to house, scheduling is more flexible and adaptable to your family’s needs. Our virtual platform houses an extensive library of exercises that is available to browse at any time. Your service provider will help tailor these exercises specifically for your child during our virtual video calls and is available to answer questions through our instant messaging platform.

Can My Child Receive Virtual Therapy?

Virtual therapy at Ladder Health may be beneficial for your family if 

  • You have a concern about your child’s development
  • You want to learn how to help your child reach upcoming milestones
  • You need an appointment time outside of traditional business hours
  • You do not have access to an early intervention program or outpatient therapy
  • You have been placed on a waitlist to see an in-person provider and need help now

What Do I Need to Begin Virtual Therapy?

In order to access Ladder Health, all you need is a wifi-compatible device that has a camera. This could be a laptop, a tablet, or a smartphone. From our website, you’ll be able to connect with clinicians via our video call technology. We treat children in their natural environment, so minimal set-up is required. You may prop your device against the couch so your provider has a view of playtime on your living room rug or up on the kitchen counter so they can join your child for mealtime in their highchair. Your provider will help you use your child’s favorite toys or other household items to practice activities throughout the session. 

 

Virtual therapy at Ladder may not be appropriate for your family, or will need to be supplemented by in-person therapy, if your child has complex medical needs, a diagnosis of torticollis or plagiocephaly, or a severe developmental delay. Unsure if your child may benefit from virtual therapy? Consultation with one of our service providers can help determine the best steps forward. Take our intake screener here to get started!

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