⚖️ How can clients prepare for online therapy?

This is the final post in the series on Challenges in Online Therapy. Read Part 1- What we lose in online therapy and Part 2- What happens with our focus in online work and Part 3- What do client lose without travel time and Part 4- How can therapists improve online sessions

In offline work, the therapist makes sure that essentials such as privacy, tissues, or water are available. In online sessions, it is a shared responsibility between the client and therapist. A brief conversation with clients at the start of therapy about these, or a short written guideline, can set the frame.

Some points that can be discussed:

• Privacy: Emphasize the importance of privacy and that clients should choose a place where they will not be heard by others and have minimal interruptions.

• Minimising distractions: Suggest closing any open tabs/applications, opening a fresh window/desktop screen and silencing notifications. For audio only sessions, propose putting phone aside or dimming the laptop screen.

• Connectivity and Battery: Devices will need to fully charged before the session and the internet connection should be stable.

• Earphones: Earphones enhance audio and reduce background noise.

• Tissues and Water: These can be kept nearby before each session.

External barriers may sometimes make it hard for clients to arrange everything and may require accommodations. Internal factors can also lead to overlooking these concerns; they can be explored gently during therapy.

Have thoughts about this series? I’d love to hear.

Until next week,
Suvrita

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