Interviewing for a speech therapy teletherapy job is a whole different ballgame for someone like me who isn’t a “digital native.” The internet hasn’t always been a part of my life like younger people do. “However, I have always used technology in my job as a speech therapist, and I am now switching from a traditional school to teletherapy. I have interviewed with more than one company because I work as a freelancer and want to find companies that are a good fit for my needs. I thought it might be helpful to talk about the differences and similarities between going on interviews with traditional schools and teletherapy interviews. Now, these are “my” experiences…other people may have had different views from their interview processes. Here are some differences I’ve noticed so far!.
Teletherapy has become increasingly popular over the last few years. As more healthcare providers adopt telehealth services, there is a growing need for qualified therapists who can provide effective treatment virtually.
If you have an interview coming up for a teletherapy position, you can expect to be asked questions that assess your clinical skills technological capabilities, ethics and ability to adapt traditional techniques to a remote format. Being prepared with strategic answers can help you stand out as a competent candidate ready to thrive in the digital therapeutic space.
In this article, we will explore the 15 most common teletherapy interview questions, along with tips and examples to help you craft winning responses.
1. How do you establish rapport with clients in a teletherapy setting without traditional in-person interactions?
Establishing trust and making meaningful connections with clients remotely is vital for successful teletherapy outcomes. This question tests your ability to replicate the intimacy of an in-office visit through a screen.
Tips for answering:
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Emphasize skills like active listening, visual attentiveness, and verbal affirmations to convey empathy.
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Discuss strategies for personalizing sessions through tailored icebreakers and shared online activities.
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Provide examples of how you’ve built strong therapeutic alliances virtually.
Example: “I establish rapport by employing active listening techniques, where I give my undivided attention through eye contact with the camera and verbal affirmations. I also personalize sessions with icebreaker questions related to the client’s hobbies and interests. For instance, with a client who enjoys baking, we may exchange pictures of recipes we’ve tried recently as a warm-up activity and segue into deeper discussion from there. This approach puts clients at ease and lays the foundation for an open and trusting relationship, much like an in-person visit.”
2. What strategies would you use to assess a client’s non-verbal cues over video?
Reading non-verbal signals like body language and facial expressions is harder over video, but remains critical for understanding the client’s emotional state. This question evaluates your observational skills in picking up on subtle visual cues and using verbal strategies to fill in the gaps.
Tips for answering:
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Discuss paying close attention to facial expressions, tone of voice, pace of speech, and other auditory signals.
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Explain how you would use clarifying questions and reflective listening to check your interpretations.
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Mention observational tools like screen sharing activities to gauge reactions.
Example: “I carefully observe facial expressions and body language in the video frame for cues, while also listening intently to the client’s tone of voice, speech patterns, and emotional undertones. I use summarizing and reflective statements to check my understanding and allow clients to clarify or expand on non-verbal signals I may have misinterpreted. Asking open-ended questions also provides clients the opportunity to articulate feelings they may be conveying indirectly. Additionally, interactive tools like virtual whiteboards and screen sharing give me real-time insight into their non-verbal reactions to different stimuli and exercises.”
3. In what ways have you adapted your therapeutic techniques for the digital environment?
This question tests your ability to translate traditional in-office therapies to telehealth platforms. It assesses your understanding of how to maintain therapeutic effectiveness despite the constraints of virtual care.
Tips for answering:
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Discuss modifications like using secure platforms, honing non-verbal communication, and incorporating multimedia tools.
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Share examples of creative adaptations like virtual reality exposure therapy or remote collaborative exercises.
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Demonstrate commitment to quality care regardless of medium.
Example: “From a privacy standpoint, I use HIPAA-compliant encrypted platforms to ensure a secure virtual therapy space. To overcome the lack of physical presence, I enhance my observation of subtle non-verbal cues and use descriptive verbal affirmations to replace in-person gestures of attention. I also leverage unique advantages of teletherapy, like screen sharing mindfulness exercises or accessing VR programs for exposure therapy. The digital environment requires creativity and flexibility to engage clients. My approach is grounded in maintaining the highest standard of care while capitalizing on the distinctive capabilities of remote technology.”
4. Describe a challenging case you managed through teletherapy and how you navigated it.
This question evaluates your ingenuity and composure when faced with roadblocks in teletherapy, such as tech issues, communication barriers, or unique client behaviors. Your response should demonstrate adaptability and commitment to positive outcomes.
Tips for answering:
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Discuss a case (without violating confidentiality) that presented unique remote therapy challenges.
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Explain how you partnered with the client to adapt techniques and overcome obstacles.
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Share successful results that exemplify overcoming the challenge through teletherapy flexibility.
Example: “I worked with a client with social anxiety who was very reticent and rarely spoke in our initial video sessions. To help break the ice, I suggested we try asynchronous options between sessions, like journaling on secure messaging about situations that provoked anxiety. This allowed self-expression at their own pace. I also incorporated visualization exercises where I could monitor reactions on video. Seeing the positive outcomes gave the client confidence to gradually open up verbally in real-time. It was fulfilling to see this creative adaptation help a challenging case thrive in teletherapy.”
5. What are your methods for ensuring confidentiality and privacy during online sessions?
This question tests your technical knowledge of teletherapy security protocols as well as your commitment to ethical standards. Your response should demonstrate rigorous protection of sensitive client information.
Tips for answering:
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Discuss use of encrypted platforms, password protection, firewalls, and other safeguards.
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Explain compliance with laws like HIPAA and therapy ethics codes.
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Describe educating clients on privacy best practices.
Example: “I only utilize HIPAA-compliant platforms with end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and advanced security protocols. I enable firewalls and routinely update software to guard against breaches. All client communications and records are securely stored and never shared without explicit consent. I also guide clients on protecting privacy – avoiding public networks, not allowing others in the room during sessions, and being mindful of volume. Along with meticulous technical safeguards, I uphold the highest ethical standards in preserving client confidentiality in the virtual realm.”
6. Which platforms do you prefer for conducting teletherapy, and why?
This question assesses your familiarity with teletherapy technology and ability to choose effective platforms. Look for opportunities to highlight security, ease of use, and other features that enhance your sessions.
Tips for answering:
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Name 1-2 specific platforms you find effective and describe key features.
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Explain benefits from both the clinician and client perspective.
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Focus on functions that facilitate productive sessions and clear communication.
Example: “I have found TheraNest to be an exceptional platform due to its clinically-focused features like secure messaging, customizable treatment plans, and seamless integration with assessment tools that enhance my sessions and documentation. Clients also appreciate its intuitive interface and versatility across devices. Everything is accessible through their secure portal which removes obstacles to engagement. By using TheraNest, I can conduct teletherapy that is efficient for me as a clinician while keeping clients actively involved in their treatment.”
7. How do you handle technical difficulties or disruptions during a session?
This question tests your composure and problem-solving skills in navigating inevitable technology hiccups. Your response should demonstrate preparation and care for the client’s experience.
Tips for answering:
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Show you have a plan for common issues – sound/video loss, frozen screens, etc.
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Emphasize remaining calm and keeping clients informed.
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Explain protocols for rescheduling or extending sessions if needed.
Example: “Firstly, I apologize for the disruption and reassure the client that we will resolve the issue quickly. For basic glitches, I walk the client through basic troubleshooting like rebooting or switching devices while I do the same. If the problem persists, we may need to reschedule but I immediately follow up via secure messaging to book another session. Throughout the process, I maintain a reassuring presence and ensure the client understands these disruptions are common but manageable. My goal is minimizing frustration while also supporting them in overcoming any anxiety or uncertainty the situation may provoke.”
8. What steps do you take to stay current with legal and ethical standards in teletherapy?
This question assesses your commitment to professional development as technology and regulations evolve. Your response should demonstrate proactive learning and strict adherence to protocols.
Tips for answering:
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Discuss continuing education workshops/courses you take.
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Explain how you integrate new skills and knowledge into your practice.
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Share resources like publications or professional groups you leverage.
Example: *”I make it a priority to actively continue my teletherapy education through accredited CE courses and professional workshops. I consult reputable journals and online resources to stay on top of tech advancements and policy changes. When evaluating new methods or tools for my practice, I seek guidance from mentors and colleagues to ensure I’m operating ethically and legally. I am also a member of
Different Types of Interview Questions:
When I interviewed with real schools, they asked me at least 10 tough questions about how I handle different clinical and educational experiences. I didn’t mind being asked tough questions, but I often felt like “oh, I should have said that instead.” My teletherapy interviews consisted of “softer” questions about my general technology skill set, background and experiences. They may want to know if you are willing to get licensed in other states. You should also be ready for teletherapy companies to ask you about your computer. Know what brand and model it is, how much space it has, if it has a camera built in, and so on. They may also ask you questions about your home internet connection, (how often does it go down).
No big table of education professionals staring at you!
Interviews for brick and mortar positions were always stressful to me. At least five education professionals were sitting around a big table and asking me questions. It was not fun at all. The first teletherapy interview I had was with a company OT through an online platform. The second interview I had was over the phone with a recruiter. The fact that I could do the interviews from home was great for me. I wore a business shirt on top and yoga pants and slippers underneath. During both interviews, I was asked about what I want from a career in teletherapy. This question was totally different from anything I’ve ever heard in a real-life SLP interview, and it was great!
Beginner Teletherapy Advice from an SLP | Ep. 45 Highlight
FAQ
What is your biggest weakness as a therapist interview?
How to prepare for a counseling interview?
What questions to ask a mental health counselor during an interview?
Why should we hire you as a therapist?
How do you answer a therapy interview question?
An interviewer asks this question to learn more about your therapy tactics and how you could use them to benefit their clinic. Your answer should include a specific example, the technique you used to help your client and the results of your methods. Example: “I had a 10-year-old client who suffered from a severe case of social anxiety.
How do I prepare for an interview for a therapist position?
Preparing for an interview for a therapist position means taking the time to review potential interview questions about your professional experience, as well as rehearsing answers ahead of your interview. By studying possible questions and practicing your responses to each, you can present yourself as a qualified candidate to an employer.
What are general therapist interview questions?
General therapist interview questions help interviewers determine your professional traits and goals, along with how these can benefit the needs of their clinic. Here are some general questions you might encounter in your therapist interview: What do you consider to be your top three strengths and weaknesses as a therapist?
What do Interviewers look for in a therapist?
Interviewers want to see that you have a well-founded perspective on therapy, can articulate your reasoning for choosing a particular approach, and are able to adapt your methods to best fit the needs of your clients. This demonstrates your professional competence and commitment to providing effective, evidence-based treatment.
