Doing Online Therapy
Worried about whether online therapy works? Concerned that you might not feel as connected as you would in-person?
I’ll let you in on a little secret: I used to feel the same way. I used to have the same worries.
Before March 2020, I never considered offering online therapy. As in, I had no intention to try it. Ever.
And then, 2020 happened. And like everyone else, I adapted to working online.
And you know what I learned? Online therapy is pretty awesome.
Not only has research shown that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy, but there are some significant benefits doing online therapy. You don’t have to worry about traveling to an office, finding parking, waiting in an unfamiliar area, or seeing someone you know. You can talk from the comfort of your own home - maybe with your pet there to keep you company!
Still have questions? That’s okay! My free consultations are by video, so you get a preview of what it’s like to meet with me online. You can also ask me any questions you have about doing online therapy.
Ready to give online therapy a try? Here are some tips for how to make your online session feel great:
Find a comfortable and private place to sit. If we were meeting in-person, there would be a comfy sofa or chair, along with some pillows. Try to create a similar environment for yourself! It’s also important to make sure it’s a space where nobody else in the home can hear you.
If at all possible, I encourage you not to sit at a desk for the session. It can feel too much like being at work, and it’s not as relaxing an environment as I want you to have. If sitting at a desk is the only option, treat yourself to having an extra pillow, a candle, or fun photos visible so that the desk feels a little different.
Make sure you have a reliable internet/Wifi connection. Check that your Wifi network is secure and reliable, and use the link on the telehealth appointment email to test your audio and video.
Make sure your computer/tablet/smartphone is plugged in or sufficiently charged. You don’t want your device to die in the middle of the session!
Make yourself a soothing (non-alcoholic) beverage to have during the session. Water, tea and coffee are good options!
Make sure there is enough light so that your face is visible on the video. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy a ring light! Just make sure there are enough lamps/lights on, or enough sunlight, that your face appears clearly. (I do the same thing on my end, too).