Discovering How Teletherapy Can Help In Uncertain Times

As the current pandemic grips the nation and the world, we all find ourselves in situations we could not have imagined only months prior. And as social distancing, stay-at-home orders, and images of the sick continue, you may be growing weary, wondering when this will come to an end. During stressful times, a range of emotions is to be expected, even normal. Know that you are not alone in what you are feeling and that there is help if needed.

What is teletherapy?

Like other service professions, psychologists, are turning to electronic delivery methods to provide services to their clients. Even though telemedicine existed long before the current crisis, the benefits that it offers are especially attractive to both clinicians and clients alike due to present circumstances. Teletherapy involves providing therapy services through video conferencing methods and considers developing a system for receiving services that can be tailored to the client's needs and comfort level.

Why is now an excellent time to consider teletherapy?

Everyone's situation is different, yet we are all being affected by the current conditions. You may have to balance work, household responsibilities, and childcare. Or you may be experiencing fear due to economic concerns, having trouble sleeping or dealing with grief over lost loved ones, a job, or control over your environment. In any case, all our worlds have been drastically uprooted. And although we have to limit our exposure to depressing news accounts, we must stay informed to make the best decisions for our health and safety. How long are schools closed? Are we allowed outside? Which businesses are open? This era of uncertainty has most definitely compounded our stress. It is in these times that having someone to talk to is needed. Research, too, confirms the need for support as the detrimental effects of being in quarantine has been documented.

Being in quarantine is affecting our mental health

Negative effects of quarantine

Studies have shown that there are negative psychological impacts to quarantine. Some of the most common effects are depression, stress, low mood, irritability, insomnia, anger, and emotional exhaustion. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, below are some tips to help you cope while in quarantine.

Tips for surviving quarantine

• Be kind to yourself
• Explore new interests
• Do not consume news 24/7
• Find reliable sources of health information
• Follow recommended guidelines to reduce the risk of infection
• Maintain some sense of routine

Sometimes, though, working with a therapist may be needed to sort through your emotions. Teletherapy is a good option, whether you are engaged in therapy or thinking about giving it a try.

Benefits of teletherapy

As mentioned previously, teletherapy offers flexibility in the method of delivery. Using technology to receive therapy also has other benefits.

• Flexibility – can be offered via a combination of face-to-face and technology-based approaches, as well as at different times during the day
• Increased patient access – can give those with transportation issues or in remote areas access to services
• Cost-effective – can reduce client travel costs
• More attractive alternative – may be a more appealing option for initiating therapy for those more comfortable with electronic media than face-to-face
• Connection – can serve as a connection during these times when relationship is so crucial

What studies have shown

Although more research needs to be done, especially in the wake of the current increased usage of teletherapy, existing reports are positive regarding effectiveness, and client and provider satisfaction.

Effectiveness

Online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy at treating symptoms. Research shows that teletherapy is also as effective at treating anxiety and stress as face-to-face therapy.

How clients and providers feel about it

Study participants report equal satisfaction and credibility of services received, whether online or in-person. Providers are also generally satisfied with teletherapy.Even those patients that may not particularly be suited for teletherapy, such as those who are not comfortable with technology or suffering from severe mental illness, can receive benefits through varied aspects of online therapy.

Choosing teletherapy

Perhaps you have never gone to therapy, but now you are experiencing anxiety and feel that your condition is not getting any better. Or maybe you already have a relationship with a therapist, and due to COVID-19, your therapist is transitioning to teletherapy. Either case could be an opportunity to give online therapy a try to reap the many benefits indicated above. Should you decide to see a therapist electronically, below are some considerations for making your experience the best it can be.

Tips for a beneficial teletherapy experience

The therapeutic relationship involves setting goals and learning new skills to address problems you may be experiencing. To see an improvement, you need to do your part. Teletherapy is no different. Below are some steps you can take at the outset to maximize your experience.

• Have a quiet space for therapy
• If you are transitioning to teletherapy, expect there will be an adjustment period
• In the absence of visual cues be explicit about naming emotions
• Prepare for therapy by getting dressed and treating online sessions as regular appointments
• Be flexible with the time of day and delivery methods for therapy
• Be honest with the therapist (even though you are not meeting in person, don't use as an occasion to hide your true feelings)
• Have an open mind – therapy can be of tremendous benefit, especially now, so give it a chance

If you are ready to begin talking to a therapist or would like more information about teletherapy, please contact Dr. Maribel Gonzalez to get started.