The Rise of Teletherapy: Opportunities and Challenges in Myofunctional Work

Teletherapy has gone from niche to necessary—and in the world of myofunctional therapy, it’s opened the doors to flexibility, convenience, and a wider client base. But it also brings unique challenges.

Here’s what you should know if you’re providing myo therapy online:

Pros:

Access to more clients. Families in rural areas or underserved regions can now connect with you virtually.

Flexible scheduling. Online sessions can be easier to fit into busy family routines.

Visual-focused work. Much of myo is already visual—tongue placement, posture, exercises—making it a good fit for video.

Challenges:

Limited tactile feedback. You can’t physically assist or guide clients, which may affect certain exercises.

Tech troubleshooting. Audio lag or camera quality can impact how well you observe subtle movement.

Engagement. Younger clients or those with sensory needs may struggle to stay focused online.

Tips for success:

Use interactive tools like virtual mirrors, onscreen visuals, and parent coaching.

Pre-send materials (bite blocks, mirrors, etc.) to make sessions hands-on from home.

Offer clear post-session plans or video demos to support home practice.

Incorporate games and movement breaks for younger clients to keep engagement high.

Also, consider hybrid models—where you might meet in person every few weeks while providing ongoing support virtually. Flexibility can be a huge benefit to both you and your clients.

Teletherapy isn’t a backup—it’s a legitimate, effective service model when done right. As long as you set expectations clearly and adapt your approach to your client’s learning style, virtual myo therapy can produce powerful results.

Simon Says Speech gives you everything you need for virtual myo—printables, home programs, training, and tech-friendly tools to keep sessions effective and engaging.