Online Therapy

There are a lot of good reasons to go online!

Is your schedule so busy that the thought of driving to one more appointment makes you want to pull your hair out??

Does the thought of pushing your way through traffic and prowling to find a parking spot turn you off?

Do you have anxiety or depression, making it hard to meet in person or even leave the house?

Would you rather enjoy the comfort of your own home – you know… your worn-in chair, comfy clothes, and favorite beverage?

Or maybe where you live doesn’t have a therapist’s office down the street!

Now, distance doesn’t matter. As long as you’re in Florida, we can do therapy online!

You’ll get the same passion and excellent service…

I was skeptical about online therapy, too. Then, as more services moved online – I didn’t have a choice but to get out of my comfort zone and try something new.

I found that online and in-person therapy were virtually the same!

There still are pros and cons, however… For one, the importance of a good Internet connection and a quality camera make the process smoother – non-verbals are a big part of how I detect potential blind spots, mood, and other unspoken messages.

I’ll share one trick of the trade: I try and watch for the non-verbal expressions matching things said. For example, if someone says they aren’t mad or “I’m over it” – but has a really sad or hurt expression, it’s important for me to see that happening.

Of course, there are elements of non-verbals that I likely won’t detect, like restless legs – but the facial expressions tend to be a treasure trove of data.

Most of the online sessions feel identical to being in person on my end – and overwhelmingly, the feedback from clients has been the same.

Situations that are better in person tend to be situations where the client doesn’t have access to a quiet and private space to participate or is uncomfortable with technology.

For depressed or anxious clients, beginning online can be just what they need to get started. However, after feeling more connected, they may wish to get out of the house and meet in person.

There’s really no right or wrong answer in this, and it usually boils down to personal preference. The important part is getting help and getting well.

Making the most of your online experience…

Having access to appropriate technology makes a big difference in the process. A good quality laptop or smartphone works best. Be sure to take a tour of the video platform before the session. I will share login details with you prior. This will prevent any unexpected delays from interfering with the scheduled time.

Plan ahead… If you foresee needing longer than one session, you can book two sessions back to back. I’m happy to spend longer with you last minute. However, I can’t be sure that will be possible if not pre-scheduled.

High-speed Internet is also essential as unexpected interruptions during vulnerable moments are not fun. Therefore, my office is equipped with the highest quality Internet access I can acquire.

If either end of the connection fails for any reason, we can continue by phone. I will also take this opportunity to say that we can also have phone sessions. However, they are not of the same quality as video.

You must also have access to a quiet and comfortable space, preferably away from “would-be eavesdroppers” with whom you wouldn’t want to share your secrets!

Manage any distractions that could negatively impact the session; i.e., noisy areas or attempts to multitask during the session. Therapy works best when fully present in it.

There’s no excuse not to get the care you need!

Take comfort in the ever-expanding opportunities to get help and remain connected. Online therapy has been an essential source of safety, security, and strength for many individuals.

Although many excuses that traditionally prevented access to care no longer exist, it remains very difficult to reach out. Feeling vulnerable isn’t fun – but it’s worth it.

Don’t let fear, uncertainty, and doubt prevent you from living your best life. It would be my honor to help you.

Reach out today for a free consultation to see if we’re a good fit: (561) 717-3227.