Take Charge, Inc. has tips about teletherapy during this time of coronavirus and social distancing. COVID-19 has us living in a time of the unknown. Now is also a good time to initiate therapy via telemental health as most people are experiencing a time of uncertainty and anxiety. Additionally, for most of us, there is flexibility in a work from home schedule. Terri Clinton Dichiser at Take Charge, Inc., has advice for those currently using teletherapy, changing over to teletherapy, or who want to start it.
Talking with a mental health professional like Terri Dichiser at Take Charge, Inc. is beneficial for a countless number of reasons. Not only does it help with very real issues like depression, trauma and anxiety, but it can be extremely useful in periods of acute stress ― like during a pandemic. Of course, with social distancing and self-isolation due to the coronavirus, we can’t just roll up to a therapist’s office. That’s why teletherapy is becoming more crucial than ever.
Research from the World Journal of Psychiatry suggests that teletherapy is at least as effective as in-person therapy and will allow you to get support while following any social distancing guidelines or quarantine restrictions because of COVID-19.
If you’re used to going to your therapist’s office, suddenly opening up to them on your bed or in your kitchen might be a little strange. If this is your first time, you may not know how to share your feelings to a stranger over video chat. All of this is completely normal. It may feel awkward or uncomfortable at first talking to a person on a screen, or with your therapist ‘seeing’ your house or more physically in your private space. But over time, you will likely get more comfortable.
For those who typically go to therapy in person, your first teletherapy appointment is a good time to check in on your goals and progress. If you’re new to therapy entirely, expect your first session to lay out what you want to achieve with the process.
Getting started can often be the hardest part, but it may provide some comfort if you can know what to expect going into your first session. Therapists like Terri Clinton Dichiser at Take Charge, Inc. will start each session by making sure you feel comfortable, before working collaboratively with you to formulate a treatment plan and review different methods to help you address your needs.
Think of online therapy as a way to get some connection and understanding in an environment that otherwise feels isolating right now because of the coronavirus. Humans are social beings. People need people. Feelings of anxiety, fear and isolation are extremely common in this type of situation, and teletherapy is an optimal solution to help individuals manage their mental health and stay connected with the care they need.
Do you need to talk with someone once a week? What about several times a week? Or do you need someone every once in a while? Now’s the time to figure out what works. Virtual therapy sessions are not one-size-fits-all. Patients should expect their teletherapy program to suit their personal needs, whether they need consistent, weekly engagement or only quick, one-off sessions when they feel an urgent need to speak with a specialist. It really all depends on their preference and what will bring the most benefits.
Take Charge, Inc. is here to help during the COVID-19 pandemic. For information, call Take Charge, Inc. at (913) 239-8255.
