How Districts & Students Win with School-Based Teletherapy
Discover why teletherapy is an effective and affordable solution for schools and their students.
A Scalable, Effective Solution for Growing Student Needs
- Rural schools can’t find enough qualified providers
- Larger districts face constant shifts in caseloads that make planning nearly impossible
- Staff are overwhelmed, students wait longer for support, and compliance is harder to maintain
While schools may prefer eLuma’s on-site services, virtual therapy helps districts meet growing recruitment challenges head-on by providing flexible, scalable support that eases the burden on staff and ensures students get the help they need, when they need it.
When Therapy Needs Outpace Capacity
Most schools manage the challenge in one of three ways:
- Handle it internally by asking existing staff to do more with less
- Hire on-site yet face challenges such as turnover, recruitment costs, limited access to services, and provider fit
- Use virtual therapy to bring in expert support that is flexible, affordable, and designed to grow with your needs
With the right partner, teletherapy becomes more than a quick fix. It becomes a reliable strategy to help students thrive and schools stay on track.
Teletherapy delivers therapy services like speech, occupational, school psychology, and mental health support through secure online platforms. It allows schools to connect students with licensed professionals no matter where they are, providing the same high-quality care as in-person sessions.
Teletherapy is a scalable, effective solution for schools facing staffing shortages, budget constraints, and growing student needs.
When done right, teletherapy becomes more than a workaround: it becomes a strategic advantage.
Here’s what to expect when the right elements are in place:
- Flexibility for Schools: Adjust services as needs fluctuate throughout the year. No more scrambling to fill positions or reshuffling staff.
- Engagement for Students: Virtual sessions can feel more interactive and less intimidating, helping students stay focused and reduce stigma around support services.
- Trust from Families: Families often begin with questions and concerns, but consistent, personalized support earns their trust.
Is Teletherapy Effective? Research Says Yes.
Studies show that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person services, offering a powerful solution for schools navigating unpredictable demand and workforce challenges. (COLSD)
Student needs and staffing levels rarely stay the same. One semester might bring a surge in referrals, while the next brings unexpected vacancies. These constant shifts make it tough to plan for caseloads and coverage.
With a flexible capacity partner like eLuma, you can scale services up or down as needed without straining your staff or stretching your budget.
When implemented thoughtfully, teletherapy leads to:
- Improved academic and emotional outcomes
- Fewer disruptions in care
- Faster access to support
- More efficient service delivery
It’s also recognized by leading national organizations:
- The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- The American Psychological Association (APA)
Online vs. In-Person Teletherapy
Comparison Sheet
What to Look for in a Virtual Therapy Provider for Schools
Not all teletherapy solutions are created equal. The right provider doesn’t just deliver services—they become an extension of your team, helping you meet challenges head-on while staying focused on what matters most: your students.
If you’re exploring online services for your school or district, here are key areas to consider when evaluating a potential partner.
Seamless Integration
A quality provider will work within your existing systems. Look for a partner that collaborates closely with your team to design a setup that supports students, educators, and administrators from day one.
Ongoing Support & Partnership
The right partner won’t disappear after onboarding. Look for a team with a dedicated Customer Success Partner to guide your rollout, monitor progress, and adjust services as your needs evolve.
Licensed, Experienced Providers
Your students deserve more than just coverage; they need care from licensed, experienced, and trained professionals to work in school settings. A strong partner will give you access to a network of experts in speech, OT, mental and behavioral health, and school psychology.
Tools That Simplify Caseload Management
A strong teletherapy platform should save your staff time, not add to their workload. Prioritize solutions that include scheduling, documentation, and progress monitoring tools built into a secure, FERPA-compliant platform.
Comprehensive K-12 Services Offered Through Teletherapy
eLuma offers a full range of school-based teletherapy services:
All services are delivered by credentialed professionals and fully tailored to your students’ IEP or 504 plans.
Affordable and Cost-Effective
eLuma’s teletherapy solutions help schools stretch their budgets while expanding access to care. By reducing travel costs and streamlining provider schedules, schools often save money while improving service quality.
How Schools Use Teletherapy to Improve Support Services
At eLuma, teletherapy is about more than convenience. It’s about helping schools deliver better care in a practical and sustainable way. With our support, schools gain:
- Full compliance with FERPA, plus state and federal requirements
- High quality providers who collaborate with your staff
- A platform designed for progress tracking, communication, and reporting
- A model that adapts to your evolving needs
eLuma’s School Solutions in Action
Let’s Find the Right Solution for Your School
At eLuma, we’re committed to helping schools navigate their challenges with effective, expert-driven teletherapy solutions. Whether you need to fill urgent gaps or develop a long-term strategy, we’re here to help.
Top 10 Questions School Leaders Ask About Teletherapy
How does teletherapy work in schools?
Students receive services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and mental health support through secure video sessions during the school day. They meet with licensed providers from a quiet, private space on campus using digital tools that are easy to access and manage. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into your daily routines.
Is teletherapy really as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes. Research shows that teletherapy delivers the same outcomes as in-person services for most types of therapy. It also helps reduce gaps in care, shorten wait times, and improve consistency, especially when staffing is a challenge.
What kinds of services can be delivered through teletherapy?
Schools commonly use teletherapy for speech-language services, occupational therapy, mental and behavioral health, and school psychology. Sessions are personalized to meet each student’s unique needs, just like in traditional settings.
What happens if a provider is absent?
With eLuma, you won’t be left scrambling. We manage provider absences and offer flexible coverage options when needed, so students don’t miss out on the support they rely on.
Will we need extra IT resources or support?
No, you don’t need to add staff or overhaul your systems. We work within your existing technology and provide training, setup assistance, and ongoing support to keep things running smoothly.
Is there a minimum or maximum caseload?
Not at all. Whether you need support for just a few students or several schools, we customize services to your needs. If things change, we’re ready to scale services up or down without delay.
How are parents kept in the loop?
We make it easy to keep families informed and engaged. Providers share regular updates and progress reports, and districts can involve caregivers when appropriate. Once parents see the care their child is receiving, they often become strong supporters.
How quickly can we get started?
Most schools can begin services in just a few weeks. Our team handles onboarding, provider matching, and platform setup to help you move quickly without overwhelming your staff.
Is the platform secure and compliant with privacy laws?
Yes. eLuma’s platform is fully FERPA-compliant and built with student privacy in mind. We follow strict security standards to protect all data and communication.
What kind of support will we receive after we launch?
You’ll be matched with a dedicated Customer Success Partner who works closely with your team throughout the year. They help manage services, answer questions, and make adjustments as your needs evolve.