How to Prepare for a Remote Therapy Session
Remote Therapy Using the Cognishine Platform
Remote therapy allows therapists to continue working with their patients even when they are not in the same physical location. Using video-call software and screen sharing, it is possible to conduct a full therapy session and integrate games and activities from the Cognishine platform in real time.
Technical Preparation
Before the session, it is important to make sure that your equipment and connection are working properly.
It is recommended to check that:
- The device is functioning properly (computer, iPad, or tablet).
- The internet connection is stable.
- The materials needed for the session are installed and ready to use.
Preparing the Environment
To allow focus and comfort during the session:
- Choose a quiet and private room.
- Make sure you are seated comfortably in front of the computer.
- Position the camera so that your face is clearly visible.
- Ensure there is good lighting.
Preparing for the Session
Before the session begins, it is recommended to prepare the patient or the parents by:
- Explaining the structure of the session in advance.
- Indicating the length of the session.
- Explaining what will happen during the session and what the patient needs to prepare.
In addition, it is helpful to think ahead about:
- Which goals you would like to work on during the session.
- What achievements can realistically be reached within the available time.
Materials to Prepare in Advance
It is recommended to prepare:
- A list of activities or content.
- Activities that align with the therapy goals.
- Content that is interesting and engaging for the patient.
Practice Before the Session
Before starting to work with patients, it is recommended to practice:
- Scheduling a meeting.
- Starting the meeting.
- Sharing your screen.
- Giving control to another participant.
It is helpful to test all of these features with a colleague, friend, or family member to make sure everything works smoothly.
Which Platforms Can Be Used?
Remote therapy can be conducted using various video conferencing platforms, such as:
- Zoom
- Microsoft Teams
- Google Meet
Each platform has its own advantages and disadvantages.
For example:
Some platforms allow you to give the patient control of the mouse.
Some platforms have time limits for meetings.
Each therapist can choose the platform that best suits their needs and the needs of their patients.
How to Conduct the Session in Practice
After choosing a platform:
- Join the meeting (send the meeting details to the patient in advance).
- Start with a brief conversation.
- Share your screen with the activity in Cognishine.
- If needed, give the patient control of the mouse so they can actively participate in the activity.
When sharing your screen, you can also enable Share Sound if the activity includes audio.
In addition, activities can also be played using touch screens, such as on a tablet.
Preparing Activities in Advance
It is recommended to prepare an activity board in Cognishine in advance (Boards & Self-Practice - Cognishine Knowledge Base), so you can easily move between different activities during the session.
Activities That Can Be Done Remotely (With Mouse Control)
When the patient is given control of the mouse, you can play activities together such as:
- Sounds of Life
- Puzzle
- Memory Game
- Sorting
- Language Comprehension (word, phrase, sentence)
- Pattern Play
- Whiteboard
- Story Sequence
Activities That Can Also Be Done Without Mouse Control
Even when the patient does not control the mouse, you can still work together through discussion and guidance, for example:
- Picture Prompts
- Video Prompts
- Naming
- Absurd Pictures
- Point of View