Set the Stage (Yes, Your Background Matters!)
Creating a calm and welcoming virtual space helps kids feel safe and helps you feel more in control. Keep your background simple and distraction-free. Soft lighting and a few familiar items (like a cozy pillow or a plant) can go a long way.
Confidence booster: Use the same setup every time so you start to feel at ease the moment you log on.\
Start with Connection, Not Content
It’s tempting to dive straight into the session plan, especially if time is tight. But when working with young clients, a quick check-in or playful moment at the start can help build trust.
Online therapy tip: Try a short “show and tell” or ask them to draw a mood face on a virtual whiteboard. It’s fun and gives you a read on how they’re feeling.
Know Your Tools (and Have a Backup Plan)
Whether you’re using a digital sand tray, drawing tool, or virtual games, it’s helpful to spend a few minutes exploring them before your session. If tech hiccups happen, having a backup like a printable worksheet or quick verbal activity helps keep things flowing.
Confidence booster: Keep a short list of go-to activities you can pull up in a pinch.
Slow Down and Breathe
It’s easy to feel rushed online. Glitches, frozen screens, or a distracted teen can throw you off. When that happens, take a pause. A deep breath. Then gently guide the session back.
Online therapy tip: Kids and teens mirror your energy. If you stay calm and curious, they’re more likely to stay engaged too.
Celebrate Small Wins
Did your client open up more today? Were they willing to try something new? Did you handle a tech hiccup with grace? These are all wins worth celebrating.
Confidence booster: Keep a little “feel-good” notebook by your desk. After each session, jot down one thing that went well. Over time, you’ll start to see how much progress you’ve made.
One Last Thought
Confidence in digital therapy doesn’t happen overnight. But it does grow with each session. Trust your skills. Trust the connection you’re building. And remember—you’re showing up in a big way for your clients, screen or no screen.
You’ve got this. And you’re not alone.
💬 Before You Go
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