How to Get Ready for an Online Therapy Session
Online therapy became well-known due to the COVID-19 pandemic when so many people continued to need mental health therapy and other healthcare services, but it wasn’t safe to go into the office. However, telehealth options have been around longer than that and continue to be an integral part of healthcare. While you don’t have to get ready and drive to an office, there are still preparations to make sure your online session is impactful.
The first things to consider when scheduling your appointment is:
Where you will be at the scheduled time?
Will you have privacy?
What will your internet connection be like?
After you’ve answered those questions and been able to find a private place with a good internet connection, let’s consider your other basic needs. I recommend using the bathroom before your session as well as eating your meal before logging on. It’s hard to understand you while you're chewing! I would also recommend having a beverage and tissues close by.
Find a cozy place that allows you the ability to feel relaxed while still allowing your to see the screen. Consider your animals as well! Cuddling with your pet can be a great way to reduce emotional distress and I personally love to see them!!
Distractions in therapy are hard for you and for your therapist. There is a rapport that we work hard to build with you and we focus on creating an environment that is safe for you to share with us. That may seem irrelevant in online therapy, but It’s actually very important! We can both sense when one of us is distracted or not engaged in the session and it takes away from the safety. Some things that interrupt the flow of a session:
When someone randomly walks into view (especially if we didn’t know anyone was around)
When you start carrying the camera around the house (It gives me motion-sickness)
When you are typing or scrolling another website during the session
Inevitably, life happens and if you have any of the above happen despite your efforts to plan, that is normal. I am understanding and appreciate the fact that we are all susceptible to life’s challenges.
Are you ready to get started? Schedule your first session here.