Choose a confidential and private location, not a public space.
If your location has changed from the location you shared in the past, please share your new location with your counselor.
Make sure you have good cell and internet connections.
Tell others you will be busy and cannot be interrupted for the next hour or so.
Turning on white noise and using headphones will increase privacy.
Settle into a comfortable (but not too comfortable) spot. It is helpful to use that same spot for all of your sessions if possible.
Non-verbal communication is important so find a spot with good lighting.
Have some tissues nearby in case you need them.
Dress as you would when you come to an in-person appointment.
Turn off all notifications and other devices and close all programs or pages on the device you are using. Put your phone in a “do not disturb” mode if possible.
Have a back-up method on another device in case there are some technical difficulties.
Leave yourself a few minutes before and after the teletherapy appointment to think about what you want to say or what was said. This will also give you time to unwind, relax and center yourself before and after the appointment.
Know that you can give your counselor feedback about the experience so it can be as smooth and comfortable for you as possible.
