Have an online appointment coming up? If this is your first online appointment with a psychologist, you may feel a little apprehensive about what to expect. There are no right or wrong feelings to have before your appointment, but however you are feeling, it can help to have an idea of what’s involved beforehand.
During an online appointment, you and your psychologist can interact in real-time, allowing for a similar therapeutic experience as an in-person session. There are many benefits to having an online appointment with a psychologist, and it’s a good idea to be prepared so that you can get the most out of the experience.
What to Expect from an Online Appointment
The idea of meeting in person is what usually comes to mind when people think of a psychology appointment. But what happens when it’s online?
When you meet with a psychologist at Pynk Health, our goal is to get to know you and help you to feel comfortable and confident with us. Whether you are seeing an in-person or online psychologist, we will aim to understand you and your individual situation and cater to your needs. Although it’s normal to have doubts about meeting a psychologist online, it’s important to consider the advantages that an online appointment has to offer.
The Benefits of an Online Appointment With a Psychologist
For many people, an online psychologist offers more convenience, flexibility, and accessibility compared to an in-person appointment. These appointments are convenient for people who are unable to attend in-person sessions due to geographic distance or other barriers. They can also be beneficial for people who prefer the comfort and privacy of their own home, as well as for those who may have trouble scheduling time off work or finding childcare.
An online appointment offers:
- Greater accessibility, for people who may live far away or have mobility issues
- Privacy, for patients who may feel uncomfortable with in-person appointments
- Comfort, which can make patients feel more relaxed and at-ease
- Convenience, as patients do not need to travel for their appointment
It has been shown that digital approaches to mental healthcare, such as video conferencing, are an effective and acceptable alternative to face-to-face. This means although you won’t be in the same room as your psychologist, you and your therapist will still be able to interact effectively, just as you would in person. You’ll have the comfort and privacy of your own home. Plus, you’ll save time as you won’t need to commute to another physical location.
So, How Should I Prepare?
Before you have your online appointment with a psychologist, it’s a good idea to do some basic preparation. This way, we can best cater to your needs and help you get the most out of your appointment with an online psychologist.
Choose a time that works for you
When it comes to online appointments, you will need to find a time that works for you and fits within your schedule. It’s important to reserve a window of time for your appointment, as this will help minimise distractions and help you be fully present with your online psychologist.
Choose a quiet space
It’s also necessary to find a quiet space in which you feel comfortable speaking about yourself and your feelings. For some people, this might be a room that’s out of earshot from other members of the household. To help with soundproofing, it may also help to use headphones.
Think about what you want to achieve
Before your session, you should think about your goals and what you hope to achieve from your online appointment with a psychologist. Make a note of the topics you wish to discuss, and share these notes collaboratively with your therapist. You should also make a note of any questions you wish to ask.
Check your connection
It’s important to check that you have the right equipment to make the process as smooth as possible and avoid interruptions. Many people opt for a computer or laptop which has a large enough display screen to see their psychologist. Using a tablet or phone screen can also be used for greater portability.
Once you have chosen a device, you should ensure that the microphone, audio, and video camera are working properly. You should also check that you have a secure internet connection. Additionally, make sure your device is fully charged, or have a charger on hand. These preparations will help things run smoothly.
Why Choose Pynk Health
At Pynk Health, our dedicated psychologists take a caring and individualized approach to the needs of each patient. We use clinically proven approaches and treatments to help patients overcome barriers and become their best selves. We service Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra , Darwin, and Hobart.
Book your online appointment with a psychologist today.
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