Making the Most of Online Therapy

Your mental health is important to your overall wellbeing. It doesn’t need to be put on hold during a pandemic, especially now that we are faced with new changes and challenges— concerns over the coming months, fears about getting ill, anxiety over public gatherings, etc. Whatever ails you, online therapy can be a great tool to get the support you need to feel your best. 

Online therapy is a bit different from in-person sessions. So, how can you make sure you are getting the most out of your online therapy experience?

#1. Be Prepared

Technology can be tricky and glitches happen all the time. Give yourself time to test the device you are using before signing into your therapy session. Check out your webcam and audio features. If possible, try it with a friend or family member before starting your call. You won’t want to be fidgeting with technology during your session. Also, be sure to close browsers or other programs that might take up bandwidth on your device and slow your connection.

#2. Reduce Distractions

Distractions are everywhere when you are home or sitting in your vehicle. Try your best to minimize them. If you have children, set up a movie or ask a partner or other household member to take care of them while you are on your call. Put pets that might be noisy or require attention in another area or see if they will snuggle up next to you. Switch phones to silent or “do not disturb” settings. This is your time to dive into your thoughts and focus on you.

#3. Find A Private Location

It can be challenging to find privacy—away from children and partners—within your home but it is an important step to help you get the most out of your time. Utilizing headphones can help you hear better and limit what anyone outside the room can hear. Set up your device in an area where you don’t have to worry about interruption— a quiet room, a closet, even a parked vehicle. Try to schedule session appointments when you can obtain the most privacy.

#4. Think Light

Try to set up your device in a well-lit location and place it far enough from you that the mental health professional will have a good view. A lot of communication is through facial expressions and body language. Your therapist will be better equipped to help you the better they can see you.

#5. Get Comfortable

It can be hard to think clearly if you are physically uncomfortable. Find a place to rest your device so you aren’t stuck holding it the whole time—nobody wants any arms or legs falling asleep. Put comfy clothes on and stack pillows behind your back so you can relax. If you are in a vehicle turn it on and keep the temperature controlled.

We understand it can feel a bit overwhelming to switch from in-person to online therapy sessions. We are here for you if you have questions or need help getting things set up for a session. Please don’t wait for life to get back to “normal” to get the help you need. You deserve to feel your best now.