Q: Can you give me some tips on telehealth counseling? I am just getting started for the first time.
A: Telehealth is on the rise and with Covid 19, I do see it becoming part of the new normal of professional help. I will provide some guidelines on how you can make the most of your sessions:
- Be prepared as if you were in person. Limit distractions by finding a private place to talk. You may want to have some questions to discuss or new concerns since your previous session. Also, close other apps so you are not distracted by pop ups during mid conversation. Also, be on time.
- Take some quiet time before you start. Gather your thoughts on what you want to discuss. You might want to even meditate so you can clear your head and get centered to be prepared for the session and in the right headspace.
- Be comfortable. Sit in a comfortable chair and have a setting that works for you. If you are using a computer and zoom for instance, place your computer where you can see the therapist as if you were seeing him/her in the office.
- If you have homework, have it ready to discuss with your counselor and feel free to ask for resources to engage in while you are out of the office.
- Recap the session, ask questions, and set up the next appointment just as you would in the office.
While telehealth may seem a little different at first, there is an element of convenience and with using a similar structure, you may find yourself liking it as much as in person counseling.