Protocol for Participating in Online Therapy
This protocol provides guidelines for clients attending online therapy sessions to ensure a secure, private, and effective therapeutic experience.
- Session Timeliness & Communication
- Receiving the Meeting Link:
- Expect to receive your session link soon after your appointment is booked, or at least 24 hours in advance.
- If you have not received the link by this time, or if it becomes misplaced, please contact your clinician promptly so the link can be resent.
- Professionalism & Session Environment
- Dress Code:
- Dress in a way that feels comfortable but ensure it is appropriate for a professional consultation, similar to an in-person appointment; please do not join online sessions in a state of undress or wearing nightwear.
- Private & Quiet Environment:
- Select a private, quiet space where you will not be interrupted during the session.
- Family members, pets, or other potential distractions should not enter the room you are in, where possible.
- Ensure that others cannot overhear your conversation, even if they are in a different room. If needed, use headphones to enhance privacy.
- Minimise visual distractions by choosing a simple, uncluttered background, and avoid moving around during the session where possible.
- Device Settings:
- Mute notifications on any device you are using for the session and silence other nearby devices to prevent disruptions.
- Emergency Protocol & Location Awareness
- Sharing Your Location:
- Clinicians may ask to know your location during a session in case of emergency; be prepared to share your current address if needed.
- Make sure your emergency contact information is current, as it may be used to reach someone on your behalf if an emergency arises during the session.
- Safety Awareness:
- If you are experiencing high-risk concerns (such as thoughts of self-harm or intense distress), let your clinician know in advance or at the beginning of the session. This helps them support you with appropriate resources and care.
- Adaptations to Therapy Techniques
- Engaging with Therapy Techniques:
- Be aware that some therapeutic activities may be adapted for the online format.
- If any technique feels difficult to engage with online, share this with your clinician; they can explore alternative approaches to ensure the therapy remains effective.
- Outcome Measures & Assessments:
- Your clinician may ask you to complete certain measures or assessments online. Ensure you have the necessary tools to fill out these forms digitally, or arrange to review them verbally if digital completion isn’t feasible.
- Technology & Device Recommendations
- Platform Security:
- Your sessions will take place on a secure, GDPR (UK) compliant, encrypted platform, such as Zoom, with entry only permitted for pre-approved participants.
- Do not share the link you are sent with anyone.
- Device Choice:
- Whenever possible, use a computer or tablet for your session, as these provide better screen clarity and engagement compared to a phone.
- Internet Connection:
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection for your session. Consider testing your Wi-Fi strength beforehand to prevent interruptions.
- Session Backup Plan & Non-Attendance
- Handling Internet Connection Loss:
- If your connection drops during a session, try to reconnect within a few minutes.
- Your clinician will attempt to reach you if reconnection is unsuccessful. You can discuss a contingency plan ahead of time, such as switching to a phone call if the internet fails.
- No-Show Policy:
- If you cannot attend, inform your clinician at least 48 hours before the session.
- If you are running late, your clinician will wait for up to 15 minutes. They may attempt to contact you via phone or email to check in.
- If you do not provide 48 hours notice to cancel a session, or if you do not attend within the first 15 minutes of the session, the full session fee will be due.
- Suitability for Online Therapy
- Ongoing Assessment for Online Therapy:
- Your clinician will continue to assess whether online therapy is suitable for you, taking into account your comfort with technology, risk level, and any specific needs.
- If at any point online therapy does not feel effective or accessible, discuss this with your clinician, who may offer adjustments or suggest alternative therapy options.
Final Note
By following these guidelines, you can enhance the quality and privacy of your online therapy experience, allowing you and your clinician to focus on your therapeutic goals effectively. Thank you for your cooperation in making this process successful.