About Online Therapy

Online therapy hasn't actually been part of our lives for very long. As you may remember, it became widespread with the lockdowns brought by the pandemic, and over time it has become a method chosen at least as often as face-to-face therapy. In a world changing this fast, it would hardly have been possible not to keep up. Still, some questions remain about online sessions, which offer many conveniences to both clients and professionals. That's why in this article I'd like to explain a little who online therapy suits, and what clients and therapists should pay attention to.

Who Is Online Therapy Suitable For?

• Those who choose it for practical convenience
• Those who can find a place where they can be alone and at ease during sessions
• Those who are comfortable using technology
• Those who have no problems with internet access

In other words, the reason for choosing online therapy should be a practical one, such as ease of access or being in a different city from the therapist; if you're choosing it to avoid face-to-face therapy, sharing this with your therapist is important for the treatment.

Living in a crowded family home or a shared room can mean being disturbed during therapy and may stop you from speaking freely. In that case you may prefer face-to-face sessions.

What Should Clients Pay Attention To?

• Enough light in the room
• The speed and security of the network you connect to
• Camera, microphone and speakers working properly

What Should Online Therapists Pay Attention To?

• After giving the client the 'Informed Consent Form', the therapist makes sure the client has no remaining questions about the process. In the first sessions they talk about the therapy process and its goals, and explain to the client how treatment works.
• When necessary, they make an emergency plan: they discuss what needs to be done to keep the patient safe in an emergency, and identify the people and places to call, such as a doctor, a hospital and a family member.
• The therapist must also be open and clear about availability outside sessions and about boundaries.

Other Points Specific to Online Therapy

• The therapist must make sure client files are kept secure
• Use antivirus software and a reliable password system
• Not connect to low-security networks such as shared wifi
• If holding sessions by phone, restrict app access permissions.

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