The University of Michigan Aphasia Program (UMAP) offers teletherapy services — speech language therapy provided through a safe and secure digital connection.
The U-M Aphasia Program has expanded our services to ensure access to our intensive, individualized speech language therapy. Aphasia therapy is what we do all day, each day. While the teletherapy model is a shift from our in-person program, during the intake consultation we discuss how to implement an individualized approach best for the client.
We currently offer two teletherapy options:
- Individual: We offer per hour therapy with our certified, licensed Speech-Language Pathologists. We are licensed to practice in many states, outside of Michigan. See below or contact us for a current list of where we can offer teletherapy. Scroll down for more details on UMAP teletherapy.
- Virtual ICAP (available to Michigan residents for now): An online-optimized version of the U-M Aphasia Program that offers the hallmarks of our in-person ICAP. That includes a minimum of 15 hours of intensive, individualized group and individual therapy a week with our senior, licensed Speech Language Pathologists. Sessions are a minimum of two weeks and are ongoing. For more details, see: U-M Aphasia Program Virtual ICAP Overview U-M Aphasia Program Virtual ICAP Overview (PDF).
What Is Aphasia Teletherapy?
Teletherapy is conducted similarly to our in-house therapy sessions. A fully licensed UMAP Speech-Language Pathologist administers therapy and tailors their approach to each client’s individual needs — but without the client having to leave home.
After an initial intake consultation to determine your eligibility, a clinician will set up a time and date to administer therapy. You will be provided a link to follow to enter a secure teleconference session via your computer, tablet, or phone.
An online appointment is treated the same as an in-person appointment; because our spots are limited, we ask for 24-hour notice on cancellations so we can offer your spot to someone else if possible. Missed appointments without notice will still be charged.
Who is Eligible for Teletherapy?
Because we want to ensure our mode of therapy is as effective for clients as possible, some clients may not be an appropriate fit for telemedicine. However, those who are a good fit likely include:
- A person who has attended at least one UMAP intensive session (typically 4 weeks) in the past 18 months OR someone who has recently received speech-language therapy or an evaluation outside of UMAP and can provide reports.
- A person who has a care partner who can assist the client during the teletherapy session.
We offer teletherapy to clients where UMAP clinicians hold licenses. That includes California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin, with other states pending. Contact us for the most current list of available states as this can change over time.
What are the Technical Requirements?
A teletherapy client needs access to an updated computer or tablet with a stable internet connection, a camera, speakers or headphones, and a microphone.
Each client also needs to review and agree to the digital MARI Teletherapy Informed Consent form before receiving therapy.
How to get Started with Teletherapy
Contact the U-M Aphasia Program at (734) 764-8440 to inquire about teletherapy and to find out if our program might be a good fit for your needs and if we have licensing in your state.
If you are ready to take the next step, please start with applying to the program, if you have not already.
Visit the Application Center and make sure you start with:
Downloadable Flyers
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- If you'd like to print and share the overview of aphasia teletherapy, see: UMAP Teletherapy Program Overview Flyer (PDF)
- If you'd like to print and share the overview of the Virtual Intensive Comprehensive Aphasia Program, see: UMAP Virtual ICAP Overview - Michigan Residents
Next Steps for Aphasia Teletherapy
If you are ready to take the next step in pursuing aphasia teletherapy, please call us, use the contact us button to get in touch or go to the application page. We are happy to answer whatever questions you may have about teletherapy or aphasia therapy.