Things to Consider When Starting Online & Telehealth Psychology Appointments
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic a number of Psychology clinics are now transitioning to online or telehealth appointments. This can seem a little daunting for a lot of people, with common concerns being:
How will I find a private space?
Will my internet be able to cope?
Will it be awkward?
These are stressful and confusing times but having access to online mental health support can be incredibly beneficial, safe, and supportive. It’s particularly important that we all look after our mental health now, as so many of the restrictions we are under have directly impacted our ability to do the activities that bring us joy. We are also limited in who we physically have access to for support and comfort. Below our lead Psychologist, Jayne, talks about some helpful things to consider when changing to online appointments, which will hopefully make the transition more comfortable for you.
Think about where you want to be - Having your psychology appointments at home can be difficult as it presents new challenges around privacy and accessibility. Your Psychologist will ensure that your sessions remain confidential on their end but there are new responsibilities on clients to find a confidential space in their own homes. Some things to consider would be, where in your home do you feel comfortable to have a private conversation? Where in your home are your most removed from distractions and are less likely to be interrupted? Most people may use a desk in their bedroom but will also let the other members of their household know that they need to be left alone for the hour, so as to ensure they can concentrate on their session. It might also be important to also think about where in your home your internet is strongest, as video conferencing platforms need strong signals.
Are you comfortable? - Online appointments can seem initially quite awkward or uncomfortable, as you adjust to speaking with your Psychologist through the computer rather than your normal conversations in their rooms. The good news is that the outcomes for people who access remote therapy or ‘therapy online’ in Australia are very similar to those who take a more traditional route and see their Psychologist in therapy rooms. A couple of things that might help you with the transition to online, or when starting online, is to make sure you’re in a comfortable space in your house. Are you in a chair that will be comfortable to sit in for an hour? Are the clothes you’re wearing comfy and easy to sit in? Are you free from extra noise? In order for it to feel more ‘real’ try not to sit on your bed or wear you PJs, rather help yourself feel like your still 'going in for your appointment’ by picking a space that feels a little more formal than your bed and wear clothes that you would feel comfortable your Psychologist seeing you in.
Minimise distractions and temptations - It’s really important that wherever you may be, online or in person, you take your therapy experience seriously so that you can get the most out of it. By transitioning to online there can be increased temptations and distractions, as you’re now at home. Whether it is having a couple of screens open on your computer at once, your mobile phone, or your pet - it can be hard to manage the increased distractions by being at home. You might be finding this if you’ve started working from home as well! These are important considerations to think about before you sit down for your appointment. Do your household members know to leave you alone for a little while? Have you put your mobile phone out of reach? Maximise you screen so that they only thing you can see is you and your Psychologist. These simple strategies can make sure you continue to get the most out of your appointments and further help you on your mental health journey.
Piece by Piece Therapies in Camberwell has now gone fully online! We’re offering daytime and after-hour psychology appointments for our clients using Zoom. We have been transitioning over the past few weeks and a number of clients are commenting on how they are enjoying the online option and the ease that this allows them to access psychological support. Medicare and Private Health Insurers have also got on board with supporting online and telehealth mental health appointments. Now, the majority of people are able to claim normal medicare rebates and private health insurance rebates for their appointments - thankfully, making sessions more affordable.
If you, or someone you care about, would benefit from mental health support during these tricky and trying times please feel free to get in touch and we can match you with a Psychologist who is skilled in the areas you need support with.
Stay Safe & Keep Well!