The COVID-19 pandemic has made people more aware of the importance of mental health. As a result, more individuals are seeking therapy and mental health support. A survey found that mental health providers are experiencing longer waitlists compared to before the pandemic. Providers also reported receiving over 15 potential new patients per month on average. In this high-demand period, access to mental healthcare is crucial. Online counseling, is a valuable tool in improving access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved communities. Many patients now expect virtual visits. According to the same survey, almost 60% of providers use tele health to see some or all of their patients. Conducting effective Online counseling visits requires some considerations. https://thestateandmind.com/ It offers convenience for patients and can appeal to those who prefer anonymity or struggle with travel or scheduling. However, connecting with patients remotely can be challenging due to distractions and technological issues.
Discussing the problems online is an easier option for many people seeking help for mental health issues. When they are conversing with someone who is not present in front of them, they feel more secure.
Expressing thoughts may be difficult for some individuals during face-to-face counseling sessions with a therapist. Many individuals with mental health issues often find it difficult to communicate with others in person.
Here are some tips for conducting effective tele counseling visits:
1. Minimize distractions by creating a private and safe space for appointments to avoid interruptions from background noise or other distractions. This helps ensure the patient feels comfortable and can engage openly.
2. Ensure that both counselors and patients are fully present and engaged during the remote visit by avoiding multitasking or being distracted by other things. This demonstrates to the patients that their time and concerns are valued.
3. Technology readiness involves ensuring that the technology is reliable and well-prepared for the Online counseling visit. To prevent any technical difficulties that could disrupt the session, it’s important to test the internet connection, camera, and audio before the appointment.
4. In Online counseling it’s crucial to establish rapport and build a strong medicinal relationship. Expressing attentiveness and support is achieved through active listening, empathetic responses, and nonverbal cues. This aids in creating a connection and trust with the patient.
These tips can help conduct effective Online counseling visits and provide quality mental healthcare to patients, even in remote settings.
To establish professionalism, it is important for Counselors to present themselves in a professional manner during virtual visits.
Here are some key points to consider:
1. To ensure that the face is clearly visible, conduct the visit in a well-lit area.
2. Choosing comfortable yet professional clothing for virtual visits is important when dressing professionally. Avoid committing to busy patterns, statements, or athletic wear.
3. Ensure that the background is tidy by ensuring that it is clean, organized, and free of distractions. This assists in maintaining a professional look.
4. Simulating making eye contact with the patient involves looking into the camera while speaking. This assists in establishing a connection and engagement.
5. In order to communicate effectively, it is important to use actions such as reviewing or making notes in a patient’s medical chart. They can comprehend that the counselor is not disengaged when looking off-screen in this way.
Encourage them to give feedback on their experience and make necessary changes to ensure a more efficient session. When patients feel relaxed and safe, they are more likely to share openly and honestly, leading to a more productive session.
By Nivedita Nageshwar
