The move in March from in-person sessions to video therapy was a pretty easy one, due to state regulations and COVID-related safety concerns. However, in recent weeks, there’s been both pressure (real or imagined?) and a yearning to return to pre-COVID “normal.” In making the decision to stay virtual, I had to consider many pros and cons, as well as consider whether my current clients have been getting quality therapy in a video (or sometimes phone) setting.
There are some unique challenges to video therapy. Some that I’ve encountered have been:
- At-home interruptions — pets, partners, kids, neighborhood sounds
- Technology glitches — video doesn’t work, we have to switch to phone, wifi is strained due to extra streaming demands)
- Confidentiality concerns – people accidentally walking into client’s space at home, or worries that they’ll be overheard by someone else in the house. We also have to be sure that the video technology we’re using is secure!
Despite these challenges, which have felt relatively minor, I’ve been so happily surprised with all the benefits to switching to video therapy.
Here are the things I, along with my clients (yes, I asked!), have really appreciated since March:
- Convenience – no parking issues, no commute or traffic! Easier to schedule; you don’t have to cancel if you’re sick (at least not too sick), more convenient if you’re overscheduled or need to meet during a lunch hour or another easier time. And, obviously, you can meet me from anywhere that is private and has an internet connection!
- Comfort – You can be where you are most comfortable, in your own space. You can have your pets, your calming or grounding tools, and even be in your pajamas. Some clients have actually found it easier to open up about the tough stuff via video; for them, they’re more comfortable this way. Also, no masks, so I’m able to see your beautiful face!
- Confidentiality – While there are a few tech- and at-home-related confidentiality issues to navigate, there’s no chance of running into a colleague or acquaintance in my waiting room!
- Consistency – We can stay consistent and on-track with our work, through sick days, moves, travels, or holidays.
- Safety – No chance you’re catching COVID from me or anyone else in the building! We don’t have the extra worry of potentially getting each other sick or being out and about unnecessarily.
But does online video counseling and psychotherapy work?
Pre-COVID research studies have shown that, in most cases, video counseling or online therapy is at least as effective as in-person counseling. In some cases, for some clients, it’s been found to be even more effective! We can do most of the things we’d do in my office in a virtual setting. There are some interventions that seem like they’d have to be in person to be effective, like EMDR.
I’ve recently sought out additional training and consultation to make sure I’m able to successfully and safely use EMDR remotely; how cool is that?I hope this has given you some food for thought if you’re on the fence about trying video therapy. The best thing to do is just give it a try. We can even do my complimentary, 20-minute phone consultation by video so you can get a feel for it. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
About Megan Rogers Integrative Psychotherapy and Wellness Coaching
Megan is a licensed clinical social worker and coach who provides counseling to women navigating anxiety and depression. Using mindfulness and heart-centered exploration, Megan supports her clients’ journey toward healing and wholeness. Learn more about Megan here.
