As of mid March, many therapists moved their counseling practices online, using telehealth as a means of providing sessions for their clients. I am no exception. Due to how quickly California shut down on March 13th, I abruptly moved all of my clients online and have not been back to my office, except to get mail.
To be honest, I love providing telehealth. Don’t get me wrong, I do miss seeing clients in person; and I miss seeing clients in my cozy office with my mid-century modern chairs and shelves of books. But during the pandemic, I am loving that I am able to connect with my clients over the internet. I love that I can see them and we don’t have to worry about having just washed our hands and wearing a mask. I love that I can see my clients and neither of us had to schedule a commute to get to the session. Teletherapy also allows for one to do counseling in one’s home, or if absolutely necessary, in the car, at the park, at work, on a walk.
Telehealth definitely proves to be more convenient and a quick google search reveals that the research has proved it to be just as effective as in person sessions. Telehealth is becoming mainstream as we continue to engage in social distancing. However, many folks may still have some hesitation about starting counseling without ever meeting a therapist face to face. I understand this, how can you trust someone you’ve never met in person? However this is what I’ve noticed about telehealth: yes, at first, it’s weird, it feels a little disconnected, but after a little while, the electronic device is just an initial barrier and once the story begins being told, the electronic device melts away and the exchange is about the emotions, the pain, the triumph, the difficulties, and success. The session is just what it needs to be during this challenging time.
Tips for a great telehealth session:
1. Find a comfortable and private place to take your call.
2. Be sure to inform your provider of your location, especially if you are not at your home. Have the address or cross streets to tell your therapist.
3. Be sure that you are not back lit and that your face can be seen on the screen
4. If you get distracted by seeing your picture on the screen, hide it or cover it up so that you can focus on looking at the person to whom you are speaking.
5. Relax the back of your neck and shoulders, sit tall, and protect your back.
Be you.