The recent research article, "Smile Society: A year of student-led outreach, collaboration and adaptation," provides valuable insights that can be beneficial for practitioners in online therapy, particularly those working in special education. This blog post will explore key takeaways from the article and how they can be applied to enhance your skills and services.
Key Takeaways for Online Therapy Practitioners
1. Leveraging Online Platforms for Outreach
The Smile Society adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by shifting their outreach efforts to online platforms. This transition allowed them to continue their mission of promoting oral health education. Online therapy practitioners can take a leaf out of their book by:
- Utilizing social media to engage with clients and the community.
- Hosting webinars and interactive sessions to maintain client engagement.
- Using online surveys and polls to gather feedback and improve services.
2. Collaboration and Team Building
The Smile Society emphasized the importance of collaboration and team-building activities. For online therapists, this could mean:
- Collaborating with other professionals to offer a more comprehensive service.
- Participating in or organizing online team-building activities to foster a sense of community among staff.
- Engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration to address the multifaceted needs of clients.
3. Adaptability and Flexibility
The ability to adapt to changing circumstances was a significant factor in the Smile Society's success. Online therapists can benefit from:
- Being open to new methods and technologies for delivering therapy.
- Continuously seeking feedback and being willing to make necessary adjustments.
- Staying updated with the latest research and best practices in the field.
4. Community Engagement
The Smile Society's community outreach efforts, including visits to schools and homeless shelters, highlight the importance of community engagement. Online therapists can:
- Engage with local communities through online platforms.
- Offer free webinars or informational sessions to raise awareness about mental health.
- Partner with local organizations to provide holistic support to clients.
Encouraging Further Research
The success of the Smile Society's initiatives underscores the value of ongoing research and adaptation. Online therapists are encouraged to:
- Stay informed about the latest research in their field.
- Participate in professional development opportunities.
- Conduct their own research to contribute to the field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
Smile Society: A year of student-led outreach, collaboration and adaptation.
