6 Tips for Building Strong Relationships in School-Based Therapy: Why It Matters and How to Make It Happen

In school-based therapy, success is not only measured by the progress students make but also by the strength of the relationships we build with the entire educational team. Whether you're an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or speech-language pathologist, forming strong connections with teachers, parents, and other professionals is essential. These relationships foster collaboration, ensure consistency in support, and ultimately enhance the outcomes for the students we serve.

One powerful tool that can help streamline this relationship-building process is Google Forms. By using customized forms, you can efficiently gather input, share updates, and track progress, all while keeping communication clear and organized. These forms make it easier to involve everyone on the team, ensuring that no detail is overlooked and that everyone stays on the same page. Integrating Google Forms into your workflow can save time, reduce misunderstandings, and enhance collaboration—key components to building strong, effective partnerships in school-based therapy.

Here are 6 tips for establishing strong relationships in school-based therapy:

1. Obtain Parent and Teacher Input from the Start

Building a strong foundation begins with gathering input from parents and teachers as early as possible. Understanding their perspectives on a student’s strengths, challenges, and needs helps create a more tailored and effective intervention plan. It also sets the tone for a collaborative partnership, showing that you value their insights and are committed to working together. I begin establishing my relationship with parents and teachers during the evaluation process by sending them a Teacher Interview or Parent Interview via Google Forms and allowing them to provide input from their expert perspective!

2. Include Teachers in the Scheduling Process

When setting up therapy sessions, involve teachers in the scheduling process. By considering their input, you can find times that are least disruptive to the student's academic routine and maximize the benefits of the therapy. This approach also demonstrates respect for the teacher's schedule, fostering a sense of mutual cooperation. Scheduling is inevitably one of the most difficult parts of what we do, and using a Google Form Scheduling Request can help streamline this process so you aren't running all over the building the first week of school!

3. Establish Simple and Effective Methods for Communication

Clear and consistent communication is key to building strong relationships. Set up easy-to-use methods for discussing referrals, screenings, consultations, and other important matters. Whether it's through emails, shared Google Forms, and/or regular face-to-face check-ins, establishing these channels ensures that everyone stays informed and involved in the student's progress AND that it doesn't wind up being extra work for you or the teacher!

4. Share Equipment for Carryover of Skills

To ensure that therapeutic gains extend beyond the therapy session, share equipment and tools with teachers and parents for use in the classroom and at home. This not only supports skill carryover but also empowers other team members to reinforce the strategies you're implementing. By providing access to the necessary resources, you help integrate therapy into the student's daily routine. Also, don't forget to train teachers, paraeducators, and other school staff who spend time with the student on how to implement these tools safely and effectively! Keeping track of all the equipment rotating in and out of your possession doesn't have to be a headache. Simply use this Therapy Lending Library template to verify what tools are where.

5. Continue to Gather Information Prior to the Annual IEP Meeting

The IEP meeting is a critical time to review progress and set new goals, but it shouldn’t be the only time you gather information. Continuously collecting feedback from teachers and parents throughout the year helps keep the IEP dynamic and responsive to the student's evolving needs. This IEP Check-In template for Teachers and Parents helps make the process seamless and efficient!

6. Take Time to Observe the Student in Their Classroom Environment

Observing a student in their natural classroom environment provides invaluable insights that can't always be captured in a therapy session. These observations help you understand how the student navigates their daily activities and interacts with peers and teachers. This firsthand understanding allows you to tailor your interventions more effectively and fosters a deeper connection with the entire educational team. Easily organize and reference your Classroom Observations with this template.

Conclusion

Building strong relationships with the educational team is at the heart of effective school-based therapy. These connections enhance communication, foster collaboration, and ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive. By leveraging tools like Google Forms, you can streamline communication, making it easier to build and maintain these vital relationships. When everyone works together, the impact on student success is truly remarkable.

If you're looking to enhance your collaboration efforts, check out our Google Forms templates specifically designed for school-based therapists. They can help you stay organized, communicate effectively, and build the strong relationships that are key to your students' success.