The Feedback Formula: Establishing Trust and Finding Success in Teletherapy

Teletherapy success isn’t just about the data—it’s about building trust and buy-in with clients and their families. Here’s how feedback has played a pivotal role in measuring success in my virtual practice and how it can transform yours too.

The Importance of Client Buy-In

When I first started teletherapy, I realized that progress couldn’t happen without client and family trust in the teletherapy model. "Buy-in" was the foundation for everything else. Once families saw that teletherapy was effective, they became more invested, and progress followed naturally.

Actionable Tip: Start by building rapport and explaining how teletherapy works. Address any concerns early on to foster trust.

Feedback from Families and Students

At first, parents and caregivers were often hesitant. But through consistent communication, progress reports, and shared observations of student growth, they became advocates for teletherapy. I particularly treasure the moments when families who were initially skeptical expressed gratitude for the progress their children made.

Personal Note: Nothing feels better than showing a family or team that teletherapy works, especially when they doubted it at first.

Tracking Progress in Teletherapy

Virtual sessions don’t require a different approach to data collection—I track progress the same way I would in person. However, presenting data in a clear, visual format (like graphs) can be especially powerful in virtual settings.

Actionable Tip: Use visual tools, like progress charts or graphs, to demonstrate student growth. These visuals are effective in meetings with parents and staff.

Challenges and Solutions

Interpreting feedback or data virtually can be tricky, especially when families or staff are unfamiliar with teletherapy. I’ve learned that transparency is key. Sharing what works, what doesn’t, and collaborating on solutions fosters trust and strengthens relationships.

Actionable Tip: Regularly update families and staff on progress and challenges. Being open builds credibility and partnership.

An “Aha” Moment

One of my most reassuring moments was presenting visual progress data to a family that initially doubted teletherapy. I wanted to personally reassure them that their child was receiving high-quality speech therapy, that virtual therapy was not a “less than” alternative. Rightfully so, they wanted what was best for their child. Seeing the clear improvement not only eased their concerns but turned them into strong supporters of the model.

Feedback is more than validation—it’s a tool for growth. By listening to families and students and tracking progress, you’ll not only show that teletherapy works —you’ll help it thrive.