Online Therapy
Whilst many Psychotherapists have predominantly worked face to face with clients in the current climate (See my blog on managing Covid-19 anxiety) many are looking at reaching out to their clients online. Many of us are struggling in some way right now, and might be considering accessing some help, but may be feeling unsure about what ‘online therapy’ might look like. So let me explain.
What does online therapy look like? I conduct online therapy through a webcam video link using Zoom. It’s much like using FaceTime, Skype, or video messenger. I ask my client to download the Zoom app and then prior to our session (about 5 minutes before) I can send them a link to join our meeting either via email or text. You simply click on the link and it connects you straight to the meeting. It’s as simple as that, and for those who are slightly less tech savvy, I am more than happy to arrange to talk you through setting it up over the phone, prior to our meeting.
Why Zoom?
Some may be asking why Zoom, as opposed to other more well know video software like FaceTime and Skype. It’s quite simply, that it is a safer, encrypted piece of software that offers greater protection with regards to confidentiality.
So what’s the difference between online and face to face therapy? Other than stating the obvious in that the therapist and client are in different places speaking to each other through a video, there is little difference. However what is important to bear in mind, is your environment. When visiting a therapist for face to face sessions, your therapist has taken responsibility for your environment. They have provided you with a safe, quiet and confidential space, which can at times be difficult to create at home. Therefore online sessions require you as a client to take more responsibility for your environment.
Things to consider….
Try and find a quiet room where you are not going to be disturbed (you don’t want partner, kids, husband, flatmate etc storming in during your session). Think about whether you are likely to be overheard? It might be worth thinking about wearing headphones? You need to feel comfortable and relaxed to open up to your therapist, if you fear being overheard then you are unlikely to do so fully. It also might be worth making sure you schedule in 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after the session in order to prepare for and digest the content of your session. I think it can be easy to forget the importance of that walk/drive to and from your therapy session.
In a nutshell, there is absolutely no reason why you cannot access this form of support online, the way in which it is accessed is just slightly different. If you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact me at: katie.warren@trenpatherapy.co.uk
