How to Make the Most of Online Therapy

The pandemic has highlighted an important fact about teletherapy: It’s a highly effective, invaluable alternative to in-person sessions. Even as states reopen and therapists return to their offices, many clients may prefer to stick to their virtual sessions because of the convenience—or do a mix of in-person and online appointments. As such, we asked mental health practitioners to share how we can make the most of teletherapy. Below, you’ll find tips on everything from essential questions to explore between sessions to effective technical adjustments to ensure a smooth appointment. Ask questions. If you’re new to teletherapy, you might have many questions about how the process works—from How private is it? to Can I text or email you between sessions? to What are the risks? Don’t hesitate to ask your questions, even if they feel silly, awkward, or obvious. Because they’re not. Reflect on the week. Just like psychotherapy in an office, your online sessions will benefit greatly when you reflect on your previous appointment, progress you’ve made, and barriers you’ve run into, said Craig April, Ph.D, a psychologist in Los Angeles and author of the new book The Anxiety Getaway. To explore further, April suggested asking yourself these questions: What has been my biggest struggle since the last session? How have I been reacting to my typical stressors or triggers? Have I been feeling encouraged or discouraged when considering my progress?  Where do I feel stuck ...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Disorders General Happiness Mental Health and Wellness Psychotherapy Self-Help Technology Treatment coronavirus COVID-19 teletherapy Source Type: blogs