Here are some key takeaways from the research and how you can apply them:
1. Embrace the Unexpected Positives
Many psychotherapists found their experiences with remote therapy to be better than expected. This suggests that initial skepticism can give way to positive outcomes. Embrace the change and be open to the unexpected benefits of remote therapy.
2. Understand the Limitations
While remote therapy has its advantages, it's not entirely comparable to face-to-face sessions. Acknowledge the limitations and work on strategies to mitigate them. For example, use video conferencing to maintain a sense of personal connection.
3. Tailor Your Approach Based on Therapeutic Orientation
The study found that psychodynamic and humanistic therapists reported higher comparability of remote therapy to in-person sessions compared to behavioral therapists. Understand your therapeutic orientation and adjust your methods accordingly to maximize the effectiveness of remote sessions.
4. Leverage Technology
Web-based therapy was rated more positively than telephone-based therapy. Utilize video conferencing tools to enhance your sessions. Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and familiarize yourself with the technology to avoid disruptions.
5. Continual Learning and Adaptation
The landscape of psychotherapy is continuously evolving. Stay updated with the latest research, attend webinars, and participate in conferences to keep your skills sharp. Networking with peers can also provide new insights and strategies.
6. Consider the Patient's Perspective
Future studies should also consider patient perspectives. Collect feedback from your clients to understand their experiences and make necessary adjustments to your approach.
By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your remote therapy practice and provide better care to your clients. For a deeper dive into the research, read the original study: Experiences of Psychotherapists With Remote Psychotherapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-sectional Web-Based Survey Study.
