Helen was referred to Family & Children’s Services (F&CS) through her school. Teachers noticed Helen chose not to speak in the classroom, with her peers, or really at all.
Starting in January, Helen began sessions with her school-based therapist and was quiet, usually with her chin sitting so her hand was on or near her mouth or over her forehead. Helen and her F&CS therapist worked out hand signs, thumbs up and down, and facial cues like smiles or frowns as forms of communication.
Prior to Spring Break, Helen was beginning to make progress, using minimal words along with hand signs and written notes; however, when COVID-19 caused the school year to go virtual, her F&CS therapist suggested video sessions with Helen. In a conversation, with Helen’s mom, her F&CS therapist learned that Helen loves to talk on the phone versus face-to-face.
The secret was out!
During the first scheduled video session, Helen found her voice, but still covered her face with her hand. She loved showing off her room and pets and was excited to schedule the next session.
Since starting video therapy, Helen has gone from being non-verbal to smiling, having lunch and talking freely. Helen invited her brother to join her video sessions and has reached out through electronic messages to schedule her own sessions.
The power of video worked with Helen as she grows more confident each day, having finally found her voice.
