Psychotherapy is a pretty easy setup to maintain. All you need is some privacy and two or more people to begin the process. Therapist’s workspaces vary from office, to hospital, to the wilderness and everything in between.
But over the past several years the concept of distance therapy has begun to intrigue many therapists. Myself included. But most would say the same thing; online therapy intrigues me, but it’s no replacement for in person therapy.
But now we don’t have a choice.
You already know about COVID-19 and it’s impact on our society. No need for me to summarize. Social distancing has lead therapists to scramble to sign up for HIPAA compliant platforms to continue offering their services online. (I use Spruce and I’ve been extremely happy with it.)
While I knew there was no other alternative, social distance being the requirement it is, I have to admit I was nervous how telehealth would effect therapy sessions.
At first it was a little awkward. Everything needs to be set up correctly; camera angles, sound, a strong internet connection. Concern about the client’s side how they can ensure their privacy when they may have family members lurking. Do they have privacy in their home…enough where they truly feel they can be vulnerable and honest in therapy?
Not to mention the technical concerns. Is their signal strong enough? Do they have headphones to make the audio clearer? Are they uncomfortable? And if so, how do I ease their anxiety over this brave new world of therapy?
But a cool thing started happening and has happened every time I’ve had a session…of which I‘ve had many over the last two weeks.
It became really comfortable.
Truly.
Within the first couple of minutes. It’s actually pretty amazing.
Now, I know I am lucky since I have established relationships with everyone I’m now seeing for distance therapy. Since trust and rapport have already been established, we are free to adjust to the new modality of conversation and we just settle in. I can’t say that you forget that you are doing distance therapy, but you “forget” that you are doing distance therapy.
I guess it stays true to the principle of therapy; trust between individuals to explore acute emotional needs and personal existential philosophy.
I’m pleased to report the question shouldn’t be does online therapy “work”? The question should be why wouldn’t it work?
If you were seeing a therapist before COVID-19 and were unsure about taking the leap online, do yourself a favor and try it once. I really believe you will find, like I did, that it’s much more comfortable than imagined. These are stressful times for sure, no reason not to have your supports by your side.
Everyone stay safe. Please practice social distancing. And be healthy.