If you’re considering online therapy, you’re not alone. Millions of people are now using Zoom or other video conferencing platforms to get the help they need. And for good reason – online therapy is convenient, affordable, and confidential. In this article, we’ll discuss how to get the most out of your online therapy sessions.
What is online therapy?
Online therapy, also known as e-therapy, teletherapy, or cyber-counselling, is the delivery of mental health services via the internet. It can take many forms, including text-based chat, video conferencing, email, and even social media.
Online therapy offers a convenient and flexible alternative to traditional in-person therapy. It can be especially helpful for those who live in rural areas or who have difficulty leaving home due to childcare or transportation constraints.
It can also be a valuable tool for those who prefer to communicate electronically or who are more comfortable discussing sensitive topics online. Ultimately, online therapy can provide an effective and convenient way to receive mental health care.
Can Zoom be used for therapy sessions?
While many different platforms can be used for teletherapy, Zoom has emerged as one of the most popular choices. Zoom is a video conferencing platform that offers high-quality audio and video streaming, making it ideal for therapy sessions.
In addition, Zoom is highly user-friendly and offers a wide range of features like the Zoom transcription that can be customised to meet the needs of both therapists and clients. As a result, it is no surprise that many therapists are now using Zoom to provide counseling services.
Is it safe to transcribe medical info?
Yes. When you use a transcription service like Zoom, all of your information is protected by HIPAA-compliant security features. In addition, you can choose to have your transcripts emailed to you directly or stored in a secure online portal. This way, you can be confident that your information is safe and confidential.
What is HIPAA compliant?
HIPAA compliant means that a service or platform meets the security and privacy standards set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
To be HIPAA compliant, a service must ensure that all medical information is encrypted and stored securely. This protects patient confidentiality and prevents unauthorized access to medical records.
So now that we know online therapy is feasible and safe, let’s see how to make the most of it.
How to get the most of your online therapy on Zoom?
- Find the right therapist for you. When choosing a therapist, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. Make sure to find a therapist who is licensed in your state and who has experience providing online therapy. You may also want to look for a therapist who specialises in the type of therapy you’re interested in, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Once you’ve found a therapist you’re comfortable with, you can book a session and get started.
- Make it a priority. One of the best ways to get the most out of your online therapy is to make it a priority. Just like with in-person therapy, you’ll need to set aside time each week to attend your session. If possible, schedule your therapy sessions at the same time each week so you can create a consistent routine. This will help you stay committed to your therapy and make it more likely that you’ll see results.
- Be prepared for your sessions. One of the best things you can do is to be prepared for your sessions. This means having a quiet and comfortable place to talk, where you will not be interrupted. It’s also important to make sure you have a good internet connection to avoid any technical issues.
- Make a list. Make a list of topics you want to discuss it can be helpful to make a list of topics you want to discuss in therapy. this will give you a starting point for each session and help you make the most of your time. Some topics you may want to discuss include your goals for therapy, any challenges you’re facing, and any progress you’ve made. You can also use this time to talk about anything that’s been on your mind.
- Have a notepad and pen. It can also be helpful to have a notepad and pen handy to take notes during your session. And, if you’re using Zoom, be sure to take advantage of all the features it offers like the Zoom closed captioning which could be helpful and makes it easier to understand.
- Hide your front camera view. If you’re using Zoom for your online therapy sessions, you may want to consider hiding your front camera view. This can help you feel more comfortable and allow you to focus on the conversation.
- Be present and comfortable. The key to getting the most out of your online therapy is to be present and comfortable. This means being open and honest with your therapist about what you’re thinking and feeling. It’s also important to be engaged in the conversation and to participate in the exercises or activities your therapist assigns.
- Don’t be scared to offer your therapist advice. Finally, don’t be scared to offer your therapist advice during or after your sessions. After all, this is your therapy and you should feel comfortable with the process. If you have any concerns, be sure to voice them.
By using these tips, you can make the most of your online therapy and get the help you need to improve your mental health. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue, reach out to a therapist today.
Dennis Relojo-Howell is the managing director of Psychreg.
