Virtual Practice
Moving my practice 100% online at the beginning of the Covid crisis was a bit intimidating, even though I have always offered phone and video counselling. I was worried about what it would be like to practice in my home and balance kids and work. I was worried about how I would connect with new clients. I was worried about the technology- like how clients would like the video platform, how it would handle the increased volume, and if it was easy for everyone to access. So many unknowns swirling at once, along with all of the other parts of my life that were also changing.
Now that we are two months in, I’m really pleased with how things are going with my virtual practice! My husband and I have found a groove managing working from home and kids. Most importantly, my clients have been providing positive feedback that have settled some of my previous worries, and they have even pointed out some unexpected benefits of virtual therapy:
1- It is so EASY! From online booking to not having to find parking or catch the bus, Virtual Therapy is convenient for clients. The video platform is simple to use- follow the provided link, enter your name and the session begins at the scheduled time. Paying is automated so that you enter your details once, it’s stored securely, and then the payment is processed at the end of session and you receive your receipt by email.
2- It’s SAFE! There is no risk of exchanging germs in virtual therapy. For me and my clients with compromised immune systems this is definitely key to success right now. Even though some therapists are able to return to their office spaces this week (in Ontario) I have made the decision to stay 100% virtual for now. Receiving mental health support should not increase your risks right now. Virtual Therapy does not depend on access to PPE, extra cleaning products, air filters, or plexiglass barriers. It allows us to meet comfortably and stay in our own secure bubble. Speaking of security, I only use online platforms that are PHIPPA and PIPEDA compliant, which are fancy ways to say that the information you share with me is protected and private.
3- It WORKS! My clients are telling me that our sessions continue to be just as helpful as our in-office sessions. To be fair, study after study over the past two decades has shown that virtual therapy has similar outcomes to traditional in-person counselling. (Check out some of the studies here.) This is so important to me because I believe in evidence-based care. After two months of providing exclusively virtual counselling, I am seeing this for myself, and I believe that there is no need to rush back to seeing people in the office.
Clients have also been really open about what is more difficult for them right now. For video counselling, some people find it takes a bit of time to get used to seeing themselves on screen. They have said that after the initial session, they find virtual therapy as comfortable as in office sessions. Given this feedback, I’m offering my in office clients a free Virtual Therapy Discovery session- 15 minutes to try it out and catch up with me about how things are going for you during Covid. Just like for new client’s who schedule a Virtual Meet & Greet, there is no obligation to book a session.
Other clients are uncertain of when or where they will be able to connect with me because they are surrounded by so many people ALL THE TIME. I get it! I am offering a variety of options to support you in making this time for yourself- I have select late evening appointments, shorter sessions available, and will only bill for the time we spend together should your session get interrupted by kids, pets, or partners. I also have a flexible last-minute rebooking policy. I understand if taking the leap to virtual therapy has been intimidating and I’m hopeful that if you need to reach out and seek mental health support during this time, this helps you take that next step and book with me or find the right support for you.