In the evolving field of online therapy, it's essential for practitioners to continuously improve their skills and stay updated with the latest research. One such insightful study is "Understanding the experiences of people with dementia and their family carers participating in healthcare student dementia education: A mixed-methods evaluation from the time for dementia programme." This research offers valuable lessons that can be applied to online therapy practices, particularly for those working with individuals with dementia and their families.
Key Takeaways from the Research
The study evaluated the experiences of families participating in the Time for Dementia (TFD) programme, where healthcare students visited families at home over two years. Here are some key findings:
- High Satisfaction: Both people with dementia and their carers reported high levels of satisfaction with the programme. This highlights the importance of creating a supportive and engaging environment for therapy sessions.
- Social Interaction: Families valued the social interaction with students, which was seen as therapeutic. Online therapy practitioners can incorporate more interactive elements to foster a sense of connection and support.
- Contribution to Learning: Families felt they were making a difference by contributing to student education. This sense of purpose can be leveraged in therapy by involving clients in their treatment plans and acknowledging their contributions.
- Structured Visits: Families suggested improvements in the structure of visits, indicating the need for clear and organized sessions. Online therapy practitioners should ensure their sessions are well-structured and goal-oriented.
Implementing These Insights in Online Therapy
Based on the research findings, here are some practical ways to enhance your online therapy sessions:
1. Foster Social Interaction
Encourage social interaction by incorporating group therapy sessions or virtual support groups. This can help clients feel less isolated and more connected to others facing similar challenges.
2. Create a Sense of Purpose
Involve clients in their treatment plans and acknowledge their progress and contributions. This can enhance their sense of purpose and motivation to engage in therapy.
3. Ensure Structured Sessions
Plan your sessions meticulously, with clear objectives and a structured approach. This helps clients know what to expect and makes the sessions more productive.
4. Provide Feedback
Regularly seek feedback from your clients to understand their needs and make necessary adjustments. This ensures that your therapy sessions are client-centered and effective.
Encouraging Further Research
While the TFD programme offers valuable insights, there is always room for further research. Online therapy practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with the latest studies and incorporate evidence-based practices into their sessions. By doing so, they can continually improve their skills and provide the best possible care to their clients.To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
Understanding the experiences of people with dementia and their family carers participating in healthcare student dementia education: A mixed-methods evaluation from the time for dementia programme.
