Virtual Therapy 101
One of your most important classes in college is not listed in any coursebook. Blocking out an hour a day for exercise, meeting with friends, or even quiet time is often a trade-off between getting FOMO or getting an F.
It’s hard enough to know what to choose to do with your day when you’re away from home for the first time or when you’re starting a new program let alone balancing obligations to your learning, to your relationships, and to yourself. Self-care is as an important skill to develop as good study habits and simple time management.
Choosing a therapist for one of those hours who can help you virtually and via Telehealth while you navigate these common collegiate challenges is often a difficult task to take on alone, but it can be done! Here are five starting points to consider when looking for professional support whether you are in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, or anywhere in between:
Confirm your therapist has counseled college students before.
Discuss whether they will respect your privacy even if your parents are sponsoring your therapy.
Be sure to ask your potential therapist during your introductory conversation (usually free and about 15 minutes long) how they would address your most pressing concern and then give their answer some thought for a few days.
Don’t be shy about sharing your thoughts about romantic feelings and relationships (especially if you’re exploring gender and sexuality) and pay close attention to your feelings about how they respond.
Ask questions to see if they understand Social Media and its role in affecting your mood, your self-worth, and your real life.
Remember, this process is often a very personal and private one, and sometimes it’s ok to explore getting help on your own before you share your journey with friends and family, who often can be the cornerstones of a lifelong support system.
As always, take good care…
Dale