Sessions are currently provided online via video (aka ‘telehealth’). Read this article to learn more about telehealth, if it is right for you and how to make the most of therapy online.

The benefits of telehealth

Telehealth allows access of therapy from any location. As long as you have access to a private space, a camera, and a strong internet connection, you can access healthcare.

Telehealth may be particularly helpful if you live rurally or have limited access to in-person treatment options, or if for health or personal reasons you are unable to attend in-person sessions.

If you are sick or have a virus it is generally preferred that you attend online to prevent spread of illness. Attending online if you are able to can promote consistency in attendance and better outcome, allowing for greater continuity in care.

For those who are time-poor, online therapy can helpfully reduce the time spent commuting or away from work or other commitments that may otherwise make it hard to engage in services during business hours.

The physical space you access telehealth from and the technology you use matters.

See the tips below to get the most out of your time engaging online.

The limitations of telehealth

For some people, it can feel harder or feel that it takes longer to establish a sense of connection or ‘presence’ via video than it is in-person. It can be useful to notice this and explore strategies that might help. For instance, look into whether you can improve audio quality, use wireless headphones that allow you to sit more comfortably, reduce internet ‘lag’, or allow more time to decide if online is right for you.

It can be more difficult to pick up on non-verbal communication cues, for both clinician and client. There may be some strategies to try (e.g., use a larger screen, ensure your camera is closer to the face, improve lighting) and more practice in verbalizing feelings can help.

Please note that telehealth is typically not appropriate for clients who are struggling with or at risk of self-injury.

Finally, if you are finding telehealth difficult for any reason, it is important to talk to your therapist about these challenges as they arise.