Tips for a Successful Online Therapy Session

In this week’s article, we want to share with you some tips for having a smooth and successful online therapy experience.

As people continue to practice social distancing in order to protect one and other’s health, many services have moved to online platforms, including counselling. You may be wondering about the effectiveness of tele-therapy. Several studies have suggested that online therapy can be just as effective as the in-person sessions when it is offered through secure platforms with trained therapists/counsellors.

Questions that you can ask your therapist prior to online therapy session:

1. What platform do you use for conducting tele-therapy? Does the platform have end-to-end encryption? Platforms like Doxy.me and JaneApp provide end-to-end encryption and are compliant with the Personal Information Protection Act.

2. What equipment and/or software do I need in order for the platform to function? Generally speaking, you will need to have access to a computer or laptop for video sessions. Different platforms may have different requirement for the types of web browser that you can use. You can clarify these questions with your therapist in advance.

3. Discuss a backup plan with your therapist for interrupted sessions. For example, switch to a phone session instead.

Tips on preparing for a Successful online therapy session:

1. If possible, allow at least 5-10 minutes prior to the scheduled session time to get setup. The extra time will help you to get settled, avoid last minute rush, and go through the setup steps in a calm and relaxed manner.

2. Find a quiet and private space in your home where you would not be interrupted by roommates, or other family members.

3. Make sure you have access to an internet provider that allows uninterrupted streaming services. It is better for the connection if other members of the household are not watching videos or playing online games during the session’s streaming services.

4. To minimize any potential security risks, it is safer to only use private WiFi connections.

Hope these tips can help you to have an enjoyable online counselling experience.