Telehealth Therapy: The New Frontier in Mental Health Care
One of the things is I've seen this beautiful aspect of clients, life or people I'm working with that you don't get to see in the office and there's a little bit of like humbleness on my part, like I get to meet, maybe, their animals or just see what home is, and it just has been this beautiful part of all of this- and I've really just enjoyed that, and I think clients have fun with it too- of it takes away a little bit of that clinical separation and it makes us more just human.
Imagine having a therapy session right from the comfort of your own home. That's exactly what Patrick Monette and guest co-host Jennifer Halper LCSW discuss in this episode of 'Friday Night Feels'. With telehealth therapy becoming a norm during the pandemic, they explore its many facets, from the perks to the pitfalls. Jennifer shares how telehealth has made therapy sessions more intimate, breaking down the clinical barriers and revealing a more personal side of her clients.
But it's not all rosy; they also tackle the challenges like the lack of physical presence and its impact on the therapeutic relationship. The conversation kicks off with a focus on self-care during telehealth sessions. Staying hydrated, taking breaks, and keeping physically active are some of the tips shared to ensure both therapists and clients maintain their well-being.
They then dive into the pros and cons of telehealth therapy, highlighting its convenience but also pointing out the limitations that come with not being in the same room. One of the standout topics is the evolution of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and its effectiveness in treating trauma. They discuss how this therapy has adapted to the telehealth format and its continued success in helping clients heal.
Additionally, they touch on men's wellness and its crucial role in mental health, emphasizing that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. Whether you're a therapist navigating this new terrain or someone curious about how telehealth therapy works, this episode offers a wealth of insights. It's a candid look at how mental health care is evolving and what it means for both practitioners and clients.