As the country vacillates between re-opening and re-closing, we’re all getting more and more comfortable with long-distance communication. Work, school, social time, etc. — it’s a time to re-invent our interactions in the name of safety and physical health. But it’s also a time when our mental health may feel threatened in new ways. In an age of social distancing and conflicting agendas, how can we take safe steps to guard both our physical and mental wellbeing? The answer is “teletherapy.”
What is Teletherapy?
Also called “telehealth” or “virtual therapy,” teletherapy is basically like a traditional counseling session… only performed long distance. It could be a phone call. Most commonly, therapists and clients connect over some kind of video chat platform. This approach was already gaining popularity but, in 2020, it is fast becoming the norm.
Some of the Many Benefits of Teletherapy
Convenience
There’s no commute or dealing with weather and traffic. You can also wear clothes that make you comfortable in your own space.
Privacy
If you’d rather be private about counseling, teletherapy eliminates the chances of running into someone you know on the way — or in the waiting room!
Flexibility
Traditional office hours may be stretched into days and times that work better for you and your counselor.
Cost
Generally speaking, teletherapy costs less than in-person therapy. Of course, it’s best to reach out directly to the counselor for more specifics.
5 Things You Can Do to Maximize Your Teletherapy Sessions
Familiarize Yourself with the Equipment
Take time to learn and maintain whatever devices are required. Once you’re in the groove of teletherapy, you don’t want to risk tech-related interruptions. Also, talk with your therapist about the privacy and quality of their video chat platform.
Find the Best “Office” For You
It will take some trial and error, but be mindful of where you experience each session. Explore your home for a spot that offers comfort, minimal distractions, quiet, and that ideal kind of vibe that feels like a safe space.
Take Notes — Before, During, and After
Teletherapy is an adjustment. It makes perfect sense to prepare differently than you would with a traditional session. An ideal choice would be to keep notes in the time between sessions. Keep track of what feels urgent and important enough to prioritize. Have those notes in front of you as you interact with your therapist. Jot down thoughts as the session progresses. Afterward, write down your immediate feelings for future reference.
Name Your Emotions
Your therapist can see you but it’s not exactly likening in the same room. In-person, they can pick up some of your physical cues to help discern your emotions. Via video chat, it really helps to be clear and direct about what you’re feeling and experiencing.
Exploit the Unique Advantages of Therapy-at-Home
Some examples:
As mentioned above, you may be able to dress in a way that better expresses who you are.
You may want to have a beloved pet on your lap or by your side.
In the case of phone sessions, it may feel stimulating to walk as you talk.
Most importantly, just be who you normally are in your own space. This will provide valuable context and insights for your therapist. They get to see you in action on your home turf!
Reach Out For More Information
If you’ve already entered the brave new world of virtual meetings and classes, the shift to teletherapy will probably feel quite natural. For those less familiar with this format, it can be very comforting to set up an initial consultation — especially one that takes place via video chat — to get all your questions answered.
