As a pediatric speech therapist, Leanne Sherred has long been aware of the challenges associated with implementing caregiver-led therapy in traditional care settings. Research has consistently shown that training caregivers to use skill-building therapeutic techniques at home can be highly effective, but therapists often face significant barriers in accessing caregivers and navigating educational and technical hurdles.
A New Model for Speech Therapy
In 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold, Sherred saw an opportunity to develop a new, tech-forward care model that would put caregivers at the center of speech therapy. She teamed up with Nick Barbara (her spouse), Spencer Magloff, and Ryan Hinojosa to found Expressable, a platform that offers one-on-one virtual sessions with speech-language pathologists.
The Expressable Platform
Expressable’s innovative approach combines synchronous care with multimedia home programming, interactive weekly practice activities, therapist SMS support, and more. This hybrid model allows for continuous therapy outside of traditional clinic settings, enabling caregivers to actively participate in their loved one’s treatment plan. "With Expressable," Magloff notes, "speech therapy isn’t limited to one or two sessions per week; caregiver participation is integral to the process."
Insurance Coverage and Private Pay Options
Expressable is recognized by several insurance plans, including Medicaid, but also offers private pay rates and accepts Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). This flexibility ensures that patients can access care regardless of their financial situation. The platform matches patients with speech therapists who meet their specific needs and schedule requirements.
Self-Service Platform for Patients
Expressable’s self-service platform allows patients and caregivers to track progress toward goals and milestones in individualized treatment plans. This level of engagement empowers families to take an active role in their loved one’s recovery, fostering a more collaborative care environment.
Addressing Complex Speech Cases
Expressable has differentiated itself from other telehealth startups by hiring health specialists as W2 employees rather than contractors. This approach not only alleviates medical licensing burdens but also positions the company to tackle complex speech cases that often require intensive, long-term treatment plans.
The Expressable Difference
"With Expressable," Magloff explains, "parents and caregivers become active members of their patient’s care team, extending care into the home and throughout the entire therapeutic process for faster outcomes." By integrating caregiver-led therapy into its model, Expressable has created a more comprehensive and effective approach to speech therapy.
Recent Funding Round
In a notable trend-bucking move, Expressable has secured $26 million in Series B funding led by HarbourVest Partners, with participation from Digitalis Ventures, F-Prime Capital, and Lerer Hippeau. This significant investment will enable the company to refine its care delivery model, expand payer relationships, grow its network of therapists, and enhance its operational team.
Exploring AI Applications
Expressable is also experimenting with various forms of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the client experience. Magloff notes that the company is exploring AI use cases to catalog common speech errors, reduce administrative burdens on clinicians, and enhance operational efficiency.
A Bright Future for Expressable
With $50 million in funding and a growing team of health specialists, Expressable is poised to revolutionize the speech therapy industry. By putting caregivers at the forefront of care and leveraging innovative technologies like AI, this pioneering platform has the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of patients and families worldwide.
Conclusion
The success of Expressable serves as a testament to the power of caregiver-led therapy and the importance of integrating technology into traditional healthcare models. As the company continues to evolve and expand its reach, it will be exciting to see how this innovative approach transforms the speech therapy landscape.
