In this episode, I chat with my friend Karen Astin Schroeder, founder of Astanova Accent Reduction Services. Karen shares how she built a lifestyle private practice that supports her passions, family, and flexibility—from living abroad to caring for aging parents and raising her son. We talk about embracing “yes energy,” the early days of virtual therapy (hello, Skype!), and how telepractice can be both fulfilling and freeing. If you’re craving inspiration, this one’s for you.

Website:

https://astinova.com/

Instagram: www.astinova.comhttps://www.instagram.com/astinovaslp/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/astinovakids/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/astinovaslp/

What if you didn’t have to do everything yourself?

In this episode, I’m joined by Jenna Cairo — speech-language pathologist, mom of two, and virtual assistant for busy SLPs. Jenna shares how she launched her VA business after years of searching for a role that aligned with her strengths, and how she now supports SLPs with the behind-the-scenes tasks that keep their businesses and caseloads running smoothly.

We talk about:

• What kinds of tasks you can outsource to a VA

• How working with a VA can reduce burnout and save time

• Why hiring help is a form of self-care (yes, really!)

• Jenna’s experience balancing work, parenting, and running a business

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or just curious about how a VA could lighten your load, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and a little more supported.

Connect with Jenna on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jennacairova/

Visit her website to learn more!

www.jennacairova.com

In this episode, Ellie chats with Jodie Wallis, a pediatric feeding therapist, about her journey supporting medically complex children. They explore the transition to teletherapy, coaching and empowering parents, using props and visuals in virtual sessions, navigating tricky insurance waters, and maintaining work-life balance. Jodie shares insights on sustaining connection and care in the evolving world of pediatric feeding therapy.

Flourishing Kids Therapy & Lactation on Instagram

Flourishing Kids Therapy & Lactation on Facebook

Website

In this mini episode of The Essential Teletherapist Podcast, I share practical, creative ways SLPs can use everyday household objects to boost engagement in virtual sessions. From paper towel puppets to scavenger hunts, I share reminders that great therapy doesn’t require fancy tools—just a little imagination and what’s already within reach.

Bonus: Grab the free cheat sheet to get started!

In this episode, I sit down with Elise Mitchell—school contracting expert, teletherapy advocate, and fellow Missourian to talk all things virtual school contracts. Elise has empowered over 16,000 therapists through her trainings and resources, and today she’s here to share what’s working, what’s changing, and what SLPs need to know to confidently enter the school contracting space.

We dive into:

• Elise’s personal journey into teletherapy and direct contracting

• How to demonstrate value to schools and justify your rates

• The mindset shift needed for virtual success

• How to network effectively through virtual coffees

• Why persistence is a game-changer in this space

Whether you’re just exploring virtual contracting or looking to refine your current model, this episode is packed with practical insight to help you thrive.

Want to learn more from Elise? Use my affiliate link below to access her course—and don’t forget to enter code ELLIE at checkout for a discount!

The Therapist Support Network Affiliate Link

Instagram: The Therapist Support Network

Facebook: The Therapist Support Network

In this episode of The Essential Teletherapist Podcast, join me for a heartfelt conversation with my long-time friend, Ali Manahan, owner of Word Play Speech Therapy LLC. We explore our two-decade journey together—from students to private practice owners—and share the ups and downs of building careers in speech-language pathology. Ali opens up about her innovative approach to therapy, including the creation of her WordPlay Boxes, which help families bring therapy into the home. We also discuss teletherapy's impact on our work, the future of asynchronous methods, and advice for new SLPs. Tune in for insights on friendship, private practice, and evolving with teletherapy.

Ali’s Website: www.wordplayspeechtherapy.com

Ali’s Instagram: word.play.speech.therapy

Ali’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wordplayspeechtherapyllc

Ali’s Teletherapy tip: Find a book on YouTube, pause it at the beginning and click through the video with your arrow key to turn the pages. Now you can read it to your clients on your time!

www.theessentialteletherapist.com

In this episode of The Essential Teletherapist Podcast, we dive into three key strategies to boost engagement in virtual sessions: make it personal, make it efficient, and make it interactive. From tailoring activities to client interests, keeping sessions structured, and using interactive tools, these tips will help create dynamic and impactful teletherapy experiences. Tune in for practical ideas that make virtual sessions enjoyable and effective for clients of all ages!

www.theessentialteletherapist.com

In this episode of The Essential Teletherapist Podcast, I sit down with Brittany Brennan, owner of Seedlings Speech Therapy LLC, to discuss the power of taking intentional breaks, reflecting on our growth, and aligning future goals with our values. Brittany and I explore how pausing can fuel creativity, prevent burnout, and help us return to our work with fresh perspectives. We dive into the importance of reflection for personal and professional growth, and how setting intentional, value-driven goals shapes a fulfilling career path. Whether you’re in teletherapy or any demanding field, this conversation offers valuable insights on building a career—and life—that feels purposeful and balanced.

Brittany’s Website: www.seedlingsspeech.com

Brittany’s Facebook: Seedlings Speech Therapy LLC

Brittany’s Teletherapy Tip: Utilize Annotate! In Zoom, the "Annotate" feature allows you to draw, highlight, or add text to shared screens. It’s a useful tool for collaboration during both meetings and therapy sessions, to visually emphasize certain areas, make comments, or illustrate ideas in real-time.

www.theessentialteletherapist.com