Using Telehealth to Provide Interventions for Children With ASD: A Systematic Review

Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

de Nocker, Y. L., & Toolan, C. K. (2023).

Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 10(1), 82-112.

This article explores the effects of telepractice interventions for children on the autism spectrum. Findings relevant to speech-language pathology are included within this article summary.

Not stated

From database inception to April 2020

Between-group designs

16

Findings demonstrated that there was no significant difference in parental satisfaction between face-to-face and telepractice interventions for children on the autism spectrum. Mixed results were noted regarding the impact treatment format had on parent-reported stress and sense of confidence for parent-mediated treatments. However, these findings were based on a small number of studies with low methodological rigor. Further research is needed.

Findings demonstrated that there were no significant differences in language and social communication outcomes between tele-health and face-to-face interventions for children on the autism spectrum. However, improved social and linguistic outcomes were noted for therapist-assisted telepractice when compared to parent self-directed programs. Further research is indicated due to limited methodological rigor, small sample sizes, and overall paucity of evidence.

Mixed findings were noted regarding the impact of telepractice therapies on play behaviors in children on the autism spectrum. One study demonstrated slight improvements in total play types overall following face-to-face therapy when compared to telepractice therapy, however this study noted no significant difference in symbolic play outcomes. Conflicting findings were noted in two studies regarding the presence of significant improvements in imitation following telepractice therapy. Further research is indicated due to limited methodological rigor, small sample sizes, and overall paucity of evidence.