Dear Reader,
Good news… it looks as if virtual mental health therapy is here to stay. This can make mental health care easier to receive. That said it is important to get the same care using virtual sessions as is offered by in office visits.
When conducting sessions as a therapist I make sure I am in a HIPAA compliant room meaning there is a door that closed, I will not be interrupted during sessions, the internet connection is strong, and I am focused. With that in mind I do ask my clients to do several things when working with me in virtual sessions.
- Find a quiet and private place for our session. This makes it easier for us to have honest and frank conversation. There should not be anyone in the room who is not directly involved in session.
- Have proper childcare for your kiddos. This prevents interruptions and increases the likelihood that you will be able to focus throughout session.
- Be stationary. This means you are not driving, walking, running or working out. I must make sure you are safe and doing any of these activities while in session decreases how safe and focused you can be.
- Avoid multitasking. This means you are not doing anything other than talking to me. Part of how therapy works is accessing different thoughts and feelings which may not be experienced in the same way if focus is not present.
- Obtain a strong internet connection. It is important that we can hear each other which cannot be done if there is buffering or static on the line. Unfortunately, I do not allow extra time for technical difficulties.
- Ask me. If you are unsure about anything, please ask me so I can give you an experience that serves you best. When in doubt ask.
Warmly,
Dr. Shyra