Entering week 5 – Offering hope
We are entering the second month of the COVID-19 pandemic. Every week goes by, and we are collectively facing new challenges together. State parks and beaches are closed, and grocery stores limit patrons to 50% capacity. It leaves us with questions that do not have a definitive answer. So, where do we go from here? How do we remain physically distanced from our loved ones in a time when connection is paramount to survival? You do not have to be alone. We at the Center for Counseling and Education are here to support you during this time of crisis. We are now offering Online Therapy sessions, seven days a week. Whether you are a new client, existing, or a returning client, we are here to help!
We realize that online therapy may be a new concept for some, so we wanted to take a moment to share some of our insights with you. At first, it may seem odd to connect with your therapist over a screen. Important elements of the in-person experience may seem to be missing, but we can assure you that we are still able to have a real connection. In fact, some clients are reporting that they are enjoying the online sessions more! Our therapists make sure to check-in with you throughout the process to help ensure that you feel connected and comfortable.
Your privacy can be achieved by adding a sound machine or turning on the tv or playing music outside of the room you are using to help neutralize the sound of your voice. If there is concern about others in the house interrupting your session, we have been able to accommodate off-hour appointment times. We have worked with clients after their children have gone to bed, or in the morning before their family members wake up. We recognize that your privacy is important and will work with you to find a way to accommodate your unique schedule.
Our child clients have experienced notable growth with their online therapy. Many have benefited from participating in emotion regulation activities in the form of scavenger hunts, games, and creative arts. These activities help children externalize their worries in a fun and age-appropriate way. Our EFT therapists have been able to support couples in finding new ways to communicate and connect while in quarantine. Couples have been able to transform the tension in their relationship into a more deeply connected bond, to manage this crisis together.
Perhaps, it is not the way we envisioned our process, but the funny thing about transformation is that it never really happens in the way we think it will. Sometimes, life requires us to pivot in a direction we did not even know was possible! COVID-19 is changing the way we experience life by testing our resilience and requiring us to create new and creative routines. The Center for Counseling and Education staff recognizes this need for adjustment and will be here to help you every step of the way!