By Lydia Sterry | Submitted On February 2021
If your child or teenager is about to embark on online therapy, there are a few things you may want to consider. Below are some pointers that could increase the effectiveness of their sessions.
Prepping the room they'll be using
Is there a surface space to draw/build/create if needed?
Distractions
Have you discussed in worst case scenarios, the possibility of them sitting in a quieter room or doing the session in yours/their car to help with concentration – (without the keys though if they are under age and if the climate is not too hot)?
Headphones
Do they have a microphone built in them and are they comfortable?)
Privacy
Is there a sign on the door so everyone knows to stay away for the 50 mins or has there been a conversation with everyone in the house about this? Have you discussed downloading a white-noise app if they’re especially concerned about privacy? It may assist with building trust and comfort.
Pencils/pens and paper
Are there pens and paper ready at hand?
Favourite thing
Is there a specific toy/object in sight and ready if needed that can help them to engage in the therapy? Examples are Lego/music/teddies/photos…
Comforting or fidget objects
Are there any comfort objects or toys that could be at hand? Fidget spinner, soft teddy, swishy ball…
Your availability
Are you available if the therapist needs some help to get back into the zone?
The camera
Is the screen set up in a way where the therapist will be able to see half of the body and the whole head? Have you minimized the small screen of yourself? Have you centred the view of the therapist directly under the camera?
Phone Boundaries
Have you turned off any notifications on their devices they are using or that are near them, to prevent any temptations?
Respecting the therapy time
Have you discussed respecting the time as therapy time? Have you encouraged them to not log into social media/respond to notifications/check their phone or open anything else that could pop up on the computer itself?
Craft Materials
Could you start to put aside empty toilet rolls/little empty plastic boxes or other potential crafty ‘things’ for the sessions? They could be used to make/draw feeling faces/binocular views of something they could be struggling to talk about if needed.
Permission
Have you given permission to your to therapist to use Youtube clips and other online platforms?
If you would like to know more information about preparing for online therapy, you can email progressiveprocess@live.com.au or click here for more details.