Tele-therapy can take a little getting used to, but we hope you quickly find yourself enjoying the comfort and convenience of this mode of care as much as we do.
Here are some tips and steps to take to set yourself up for your upcoming session:
Find a private space where you can talk freely, without interruption or anyone hearing you, and with as few of distractions as possible
Make sure you have good light on your face and avoid back lighting. If you will be in a space that is poorly lit, you might consider purchasing a ring light for our sessions.
Please wear headphones to provide a better quality sound experience and increased privacy
Make sure you have a solid internet connection (glitches in connection are especially frustrating when trying to connect for therapy). You can run an internet speed check prior to session to locate the best part of your home for a session
If you are going to use your laptop or desktop, you simply need to follow the link in the email we will send you the day of your session. If you are going to use your tablet/iPad or smartphone, you will need to download the Simple Practice Tele-therapy app, prior to your session, and then follow the link in the email
If you plan to use your phone or tablet/iPad, please be sure to have a way to set it up so you can be hands free of your device during your session (There are relatively inexpensive tablet/smartphone stands you can order online)
Close out all other tabs and applications on your device
Grab a box a tissues and keep it nearby
Have your therapy journal or a pad of paper and a pen on hand
If you express yourself in color or artistically, having a sketch pad and colored pencils with you(or any other medium you prefer) is a great resource
Remember to put all of your devices on "Do Not Disturb" prior to the start of our session
Be sure to have the device you are using fully charged, prior to our session, and have a power source nearby, if needed (video utilizes power rapidly)
Grab a sweater, socks, warm cap, and blanket to have nearby, just in case your body temperature drops during session
Have a lined, small trash can on hand
Be sure to have some water or tea close by
If you have not had anything to eat in the last 3-4 hours, please have a healthy snack before we begin
Lastly, get comfortable! One of the best parts of tele-therapy, is you can set up your therapy time in a way that feels just right for you. Cuddle with your beloved pet, have your favorite candle burning, cozy clothes, soothing music in the background, your favorite tea, whatever works for you
Our greatest privilege as therapists is to serve our clients and community, and we are deeply honored to do so, now, more than ever. If you have any concerns or questions about how to navigate your therapeutic needs, please call us at (760)314-4644 and we will do our best to support you.
With much love and solidarity,
Annie and Jenessa