If you are starting your first virtual therapy session or are searching for ways to eliminate distractions during appointments, keep reading!
One of the many challenges we faced during the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns was adjusting to life online. Our offices and doctors appointments were either temporarily or permanently replaced with video calls. While this was a relief for some, it brought about challenges for others.
This is especially true for people attending virtual therapy sessions. Whether you switched to online therapy during the pandemic or are using it as a way to try talk therapy for the first time, you are probably wondering how you can get the most out of your appointments. Luckily, we have X tips to help you make the most out of your online therapy appointments, plus we’ll show you how to find online therapy options with insurance that work for you. Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Platform for Your Needs
The best online therapy platform for you will depend on your mental health needs and insurance
Not all virtual therapy platforms offer the same service.
If you’re ready to attend your first virtual therapy session, or are looking to find a provider that better suits your needs, then you’ve got a lot of choices ahead of you. First up, there are a few different ways online platforms administer therapy.
Some of them require a flat monthly payment where you get an allotted amount of appointments and you can message your therapist on their application or website. These providers are generally better for people trying therapy for the first time or those who are looking to talk about less severe mental health issues.
You also have the option to pursue virtual therapy where you pay by session instead of monthly. Generally, these types of providers are better equipped to treat more severe mental illnesses and are more likely to take insurance. Since they don’t feature the messaging feature, they more closely mimic in-person therapy.
Overall, to set yourself up for a great appointment, choose your platform based on your insurance and mental health needs.
Find a Quiet Place Where You Can Focus
Peace, quiet, and privacy are key elements for an effective virtual therapy session
Find a place in your home where you feel most comfortable discussing your mental health.
When you see a therapist virtually, the same rules still apply to your privacy. Your therapist will be ethically required to conduct your appointment somewhere private as to protect your confidentiality.
Since your therapist does their best to honor your privacy, you should do the same. It is not recommended that you start your session in a public place where people may overhear your session. You might end up feeling self conscious or distracted, unlike in-person therapy which is conducted with just you and your therapist in the room together.
If you have roommates or are worried about other family members hearing the content of your virtual therapy session, then we recommend using something to block the noise so you feel more comfortable. Usually a white noise machine or a fan is enough to do the trick. Remember, the more comfortable you feel being honest in your therapy session, the more your therapist will be able to help.
Write Down a List of Questions
Your first virtual therapy session can feel overwhelming, that’s why you need to do a little bit of preparation
Preparing for your next therapy session is never a bad idea.
If you’ve never been to therapy, or if this is your first virtual session, you might be wondering what to expect. Whether it is something as simple as, “How often do you usually meet your clients?” or a more complex mental health dilemma, make sure you gather your thoughts before your session starts. To help you get started, we’ve come up with a list of some common questions people have as they begin online therapy.
Do you prefer video or phone calls?
What are your confidentiality policies?
Which mental health principles do you follow for treatment?
What happens if my internet connection is not cooperating?
How do you usually structure your appointments?
What do you need to know about me to get started?
Once your therapist has answered your questions, you’ll be feeling much more comfortable and ready for the rest of your appointment. Only by writing down your most pressing concerns ahead of time can you get them out of the way before starting treatment.
Put Yourself First
Don’t be intimidated by your first virtual therapy session, your therapist is there to help
Prioritize open communication with your therapist.
This advice is more for true first timers than those who have been to in-person therapy, but it is still beneficial to keep in mind — your therapy session is for YOU! If your therapist’s volume is too low, their screen is frozen, or they’ve misunderstood something you said, it is your responsibility to speak up. Though it can be intimidating, speaking up ensures that you are getting the most out of your sessions.
Still have questions on how to have the best possible virtual therapy session? That’s ok! This article doesn’t cover every possible strategy, but you can still write down your questions or concerns and talk to your therapist about them. Your best therapy sessions could be right around the corner by following our tips!
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