Does Online Therapy For Kids Really Work?
In early 2020, my previous clinic director sent an email, announcing a temporary shift to virtual therapy due to the new virus. Little did we know it would last closer to two years! I found myself pondering how to transport my whiteboard home, how to make slime virtually, and what therapeutic toys to bring. Questions like, "How do I play UNO virtually with that one client?" danced in my mind.
Back then, there were no established best practices for online therapy with kids. I was concerned—could I deliver the same quality of care virtually?
Turns out, not only did we figure it out, but we also uncovered unexpected benefits of online therapy!
You may still be wondering… but how will a therapist really help with my child virtually?
Do not worry, we have many strategies and in the past 4 years have developed best practices to ensure we are delivering just as great care virtually as we would in person. Here are just a few:
We use interactive activities:
Just like in in-person sessions, we use virtual whiteboards, virtual sand trays, or drawing apps to facilitate interactive exercises, encourage self-expression and communication. There’s even virtual UNO we can play!
We lean into visual supports and videos:
For example, we can pull up mood charts or emotion wheels to help children identify and express their feelings during sessions. We can practice mindfulness activities by watching brief videos and following along together, or do role plays to practice coping tools.
We incorporate movement and play:
Not all of us can stay focused for an entire session. Movement breaks, yoga stretches or interactive games that promote physical activity, to address both physical and emotional well-being. The goal is also to teach kids to recognize when they are feeling restless to each self-regulation skills.
We use different communication channels:
Kids can use the chat feature, send us messages outside of sessions, or draw how they are feeling or what they are thinking. We think outside the box to ensure we are communicating with kids in the way that makes most sense for where they are at.
We encourage parent involvement and support:
Sometimes, what works best is to have a parent actively participate in sessions, the therapist then can coach the parent on how to provide support and reinforcement of therapeutic activities between appointments.
We problem solve with parents and kids if something is not working:
From the first session we let kids know our expectations when they are in teletherapy (no other apps open, no texting, finding a quiet place, camera on, etc.). If they are struggling to be able to meet these expectations, we help kids and parents solve what may be getting in the way. We can download temporary app blockers, suggest a different device, different day or time, or a different format altogether.
Online therapy isn't just a substitute, it's an alternative path, offering unique advantages like accessibility, comfort, and even anonymity for some children. It's not a magic solution, but with effective communication, tailored interventions, and open collaboration with parents, online therapy can be a powerful tool for helping children thrive.
If you're still hesitant about virtual care, and have additional questions click on this link to set up a free 20-minute consultation to be matched with a therapist tailored to your child and family’s needs.