With the recent pandemic, most people have had to adjust to new ways of working, studying, and socializing. For millions of Americans, this also means finding ways to access counseling and mental health services remotely through telehealth options.

However, using these services can still be somewhat overwhelming, especially if you're new to the process. This post provides some tips to help you navigate telehealth counseling.

Find a Comfortable and Private Space

One of the most important aspects of telehealth counseling is finding a suitable and private space to participate in the session. You'll want to choose a space that feels comfortable, private, and where you won't be disturbed. This could be a quiet corner in your home or office or even outside, so long as you can maintain a strong internet connection.

Make sure that your device is in a secure and stable position and that you are positioned at a comfortable distance from your screen. If you live with others, let them know when you will participate in a session, and politely ask them not to disturb you. This will help you to remain focused on your session without external distractions.

Prior to your telehealth appointment, make sure to test your connection, camera, and microphone to ensure that everything is working smoothly. The last thing you want during a session is to have technical difficulties or connection issues.

Be Honest and Open with Your Therapist

In telehealth (as with in-person therapy), being honest and open with your therapist is important. It can be scary to share your innermost thoughts and feelings, but your therapist is there to help you work through them in a compassionate and non-judgmental way.

Building a trusting and transparent relationship with your therapist is one of the key aspects of telehealth therapy. And because the sessions are virtual, you don't have to worry about being judged or feeling uncomfortable in the physical space. Instead, you can focus on getting the help and support you need.

Take Care of Yourself

Taking care of yourself is a crucial part of navigating telehealth counseling. This means prioritizing self-care and sticking to a healthy routine. Many people find it helpful to engage in activities such as exercise, meditation, or journaling to supplement their therapy sessions. Others read up on helpful resources and use them to inform their sessions.

Whatever activities you choose, you need to stay consistent to get the most out of your telehealth experience. This will help you stay mentally and physically healthy, even in times of uncertainty. 

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