Social Distancing and the Therapeutic Process

Indeed, we are in the midst of a historical time. Our world has been introduced to a new virus. Currently, there are many unknowns and the uncertainty has its own ramifications. Anxiety, fear, and panic, just to name a few. Along with the worries and significant disruption to daily life related to the novel Coronavirus COVID-19, we have been asked to practice “social distancing”. Hence, we are being asked if not forced, to stay away from one another.

social distancing, now a household term, is currently our new norm. Staying home in isolation is what is recommended. Businesses, restaurants, shops, and many doctor’s offices have closed. Where does this leave therapists and how will the therapeutic process be affected by social distancing?

The therapeutic process does not have to come to halt due to social distancing. Therapists don’t have to stop treating their patients. Fortunately, psychotherapy can be done over a phone or video call.

I personally have moved my practice to an online format for the time being. I’ve implemented real-time chat and teletherapy to continue working with my clients. Some practitioners correspond through email and find it effective and well-received.

Online therapy sessions are not new and are practiced regularly by many therapists. Many find online sessions convenient and beneficial. In-person sessions do provide a different dynamic. Not necessarily better or worse, just different. Online sessions are secure and HIPAA-compliant. Clients can still share thoughts and feelings to their therapists in confidence.

The question is, “will the therapeutic process for those who are transitioning from in-person therapy to online therapy be negatively affected?”.

It doesn’t have to. While the medium is different, the therapeutic process is not. The work and role of the therapist remain the same. Rapport, level of care, and emotional connectedness are all sustained. Yes, it may feel different and for some, a bit strange, but the quality and efficacy of the work continues.

-- It’s important to note that social distancing includes physical distance, not emotional distance.
-- It’s vital to our mental health that we stay engaged and share our thoughts and feelings.
-- We live in a day and age where we can still connect without connecting.

Our mental health is important and affects our physical health. Times of uncertainty can trigger symptoms of anxiety and depression or exacerbate current ones. Social distancing is not beneficial for those who are struggling with depression or with suicidal ideation as isolation leaves these individuals stuck alone with their own thoughts.

Social distancing does not need to cause a disruption in the therapeutic process. This is not the time to suspend psychotherapy sessions. It’s important to continue your mental health care or even begin therapy during this time. The uncertainty of this time is an unprecedented stressor and can affect even those who are generally well adjusted. There has never been a time more important than now to nurture or continue to nurture your mental health.

Dr Roz. Licensed Clinical Psychologist

(Click to request an appointment | (California))