Teletherapy uses technology instead of going to a clinic or an institution on-site. If you’re a patient seeking medical attention, you can use this for convenience.
Basically you can explore video conferencing or other video calling applications to contact a medical professional. Despite not being face-to-face with medical personnel, you can still receive the same quality of service.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, more institutions and clinics started to adopt teletherapy services. It became a helpful way for patients to pursue mental health services without the risk of catching the virus.
If you’re unsure how to make the most out of teletherapy – no worries. I’m here to help.
As you might know, I am a bestselling wellness author with about 2 million books sold globally. I founded a groundbreaking video course called The Anxiety Cure and also offer 1 on 1 personal coaching by Zoom.
I love sharing insights and strategies to help people to live their healthiest, best life.
With this in mind I put together this quick guide on teletherapy.
If you’re planning to engage in a teletherapy session, here’s how you can make the most out of it.
If you’re a first-time user of teletherapy, you may want to consider exploring free teletherapy services first. Many medical services offer things like free trial yoga, free mental health consultation, or other free medical checkups. Additionally, if you’re in Oregon, there are therapists and psychiatric providers offering counseling in Eugene Oregon for individuals, couples, and families. Free consultations can help you determine whether a service is a good fit for your needs.
The advantage of doing your sessions at home is that you’re spared from the hassles of traveling and traffic.
Creating an appropriate space for your teletherapy sessions at home is quite easy. You can make some interior arrangements like adding ergonomic chairs or adjusting the lighting to set the mood.
For instance, if you’re exploring a yoga session online to help with stress, you will need to make sure you have a room with ample space to move freely,
To get the most out of your teletherapy services, you should do your best to stay focused.
With this in mind, there are some simple steps that you can take to minimize distractions.
For example, you should make sure your space is private and has stable internet connection. You might also want to wear headphones. And obviously you should make sure you’ve turned off your phone so you’re not interrupted.
Your mental health is important – so you must treat this session as important.
Having a new platform for your sessions can feel awkward at first. In fact, most people start off feeling timid about this new way of communicating.
With this in mind, you might want to practice the things that you want to say and your expressions on the webcam before you get on the teletherapy session so you feel comfortable with being yourself.
Remember: Your facial expressions and hand gestures can guide your therapist and give them cues for a more accurate evaluation.
You can prepare to share some of your personal things on camera. Or you can read something you feel is important. You can even have your pets around you if you’re not that comfortable speaking consistently.
If you want to be fully prepared for the teletherapy session, then you should check your internet connection ahead of time and do everything you can in advance to avoid technical difficulties.
With this in mind, you should also be sure to download any application that you’re going to use for the session long before the session begins. It’s also advisable to know the various features on the application so you can swiftly troubleshoot any technical difficulties.
If you’re going to explore teletherapy, it’s best that you have your sessions during your most convenient time and set on a regular basis. In this way, you can prevent conflict in your schedule and enjoy a comfortable session. Plus another advantage of setting a schedule is that you can also mentally prepare for your teletherapy.
Typical sessions run for 40 to 60 minutes depending on your treatment plan. Naturally, you would want to maximize your time, so that you get value for your money.
Some patients are afraid to ask questions. They may want to avoid hearing negative information about their true state. However, asking more questions will give you a better understanding of your current situation.
Before your sessions, try writing down any questions that you can think of so you won’t forget anything.
Assuming your therapist has also prescribed you medications, you can also ask about your prescribed medicines to know the possible side effects and advantages.
You’re not the only one who’s adjusting to the new normal of mental health counseling. Your therapist is too. They may be more used to having physical face to face sessions. Sometimes, there may be short lapses or minor inconveniences during the online sessions.
Feel free to give constructive criticism if you feel that something is lacking or inappropriate during the session. You should be sure to them know early on so they can fix the problem. This way, you’re also helping your mental healthcare provider to improve their services and be able to assist others better as well.
Making the most out of your teletherapy during the pandemic may give you the same results as you’re having physical sessions. This method can be a great choice since it’s accessible, cost-effective, and safe from the virus because you’re doing the therapy sessions in the comforts of your home.
Moreover, you should remember that your mental health is also part of your overall health. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone because people will always be there to listen. Teletherapy may be challenging at first. But with ample preparation and some adjustments, you can be on your way to recovery.
Explore my groundbreaking video course called The Anxiety Cure.
Think about subscribing for free weekly tools here.
No SPAM, ever! Read the Privacy Policy for more information.
