The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented changes in the way we provide therapy, particularly with the sudden shift to online modalities. The research article "Living under lockdown in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa: anxious voices from the unplanned shift to online therapy" by Zelda Gillian Knight offers invaluable insights into the new anxieties and challenges faced by patients and therapists alike. By examining these findings, we can improve our online therapy skills and ensure better outcomes for children in schools.
Key Themes from the Research
- New Anxieties about Death and Dying: The pandemic has heightened fears about mortality, which can significantly impact therapeutic processes. Addressing these anxieties directly in therapy can help patients manage their fears more effectively.
- Loss of Contact and Existential Anxiety: The lack of physical interaction has led to feelings of isolation and meaninglessness. Therapists should explore these feelings and help patients find new ways to connect and find meaning.
- Household Relationship Stress: Lockdown has exacerbated existing familial tensions. It's crucial to address these issues in therapy to provide a supportive environment for the patient.
- Unplanned Shift to Online Therapy: The sudden move to online platforms has introduced new anxieties about internet connectivity and the loss of in-person interaction. Therapists should acknowledge these concerns and work on building a strong virtual therapeutic alliance.
- Missing Body Parts in Online Therapy: The inability to see the whole body during online sessions can affect the therapeutic process. Therapists should be mindful of this limitation and find ways to compensate for the lack of physical presence.
Practical Steps for Improving Online Therapy Skills
- Build a Strong Therapeutic Alliance: Focus on creating a safe and supportive virtual environment. Use consistent eye contact and active listening to make the patient feel heard and understood.
- Address Technological Concerns: Discuss potential connectivity issues upfront and have a backup plan in place. This can help reduce anxiety related to sudden disconnections.
- Be Mindful of Non-Verbal Cues: Pay extra attention to facial expressions and tone of voice, as these become more critical when body language is limited.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Allow patients to express their anxieties about the new therapy format. Validating their concerns can help build trust and improve the therapeutic relationship.
- Incorporate Psychoeducation: Educate patients about the normalcy of their anxieties and provide coping strategies to manage them effectively.
Implementing these strategies can significantly improve the quality of online therapy, ensuring that children receive the support they need during these challenging times. As we continue to adapt to new modalities, staying informed and flexible is key to providing effective therapeutic interventions.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Living under lockdown in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa: anxious voices from the unplanned shift to online therapy.
