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.\

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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💬 Before You Go

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