HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST VIDEO COUNSELLING SESSION

Video counseling is very beneficial for many people. It eliminates geographical boundaries and offers the convenience of accessing professional and competent counselors regardless of the location. Today, video calls are gradually replacing face-to-face meetings, and healthcare is one of the fields benefitting from this amazing transition.

Many people prefer teletherapy not because of the convenience but also the safety and comfort of doing therapy in a familiar place. It removes the discomfort of sitting in a small office with a therapist, eliminates transport costs, and allows those in remote areas to access therapy affordably.

If you consider seeing a counselor virtually, here are some preparation tips for you.

Find a quiet secluded place.

First, find a quiet, secluded private location where you can have your video counseling session in peace. Therapy is an intimate affair that requires concentration, and it is hard to focus when things are happening around you.

Besides, you don’t want to worry about other people overhearing your conversations with your therapist, especially if the subjects are sensitive or related to the home environment. You can even have the session from your car as long as it is private and quiet.

Ensure your internet is reliable

The last inconvenience you want is your internet connection to go off in the middle of a heart-to-heart conversation with your therapist. It can break the continuity of a conversation and interrupt your thoughts. Ensure you have a backup communication method to reconnect with your therapist immediately if anything happens.

Have a plan to handle emergencies

Therapy involves discussing the deepest of personal secrets with a trusted professional. It is easy to become emotionally triggered or activated during a therapy session, and you may need a shoulder to cry on.

Ensure your therapist knows your emergency plan, for example, having a phone number they can call or text to ask for someone to help you out. It is good to allow your therapist to reach out to family or friends who can support you.

Learn about the policies of the clinician

Before you start a virtual therapy session, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the consent policies of the therapist or organization you are working with. Confidentiality is vital in therapy, and it means you can trust your therapist to maintain the confidentiality of the information you divulge with them. These policies are critical in video counseling sessions to know whether you can trust the process.

Allow yourself time to get comfortable.

Your first virtual counseling session may not be easy or comfortable. You can ask your therapist to be patient with you as you get used to it. You may not immediately open up about your problems in the first session, but you may get comfortable with time. Also, feel free to ask for a physical session if a video session doesn’t work for you.

Last words

Preparation is vital for a successful video counseling session. You can even set up your station minutes before and allow yourself enough time to get comfortable before the therapist joins you.

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