Over the past few years, telehealth has become a huge part of mental health care. There are so many benefits to being able to see a provider online for therapy or psychiatric medication management. Time is a precious commodity that most of us don’t have a lot of. Online sessions can make it easier to find time to focus on your wellness and open up a world of possibilities when it comes to choosing a provider.
While there are many benefits to seeing clients online, you may find yourself missing being in the office physically as well. If you are beginning to feel this way, you aren’t alone. Many providers that have been seeing clients strictly online for the past few years are wanting to get back into the office, I am certainly one of them!
Benefits of a Hybrid Approach
Don’t get me wrong, I love online counseling. It removes so many barriers to engaging in therapy and offers clients so many other options. Gone are the days of clients having to cancel due to inclement weather or illness. Even if an appointment is initially forgotten, it can still happen when you don’t have to factor in drive time!
You can enjoy providing online counseling AND in person sessions. You don’t have to choose when you take a hybrid approach to scheduling. Allowing yourself this flexibility can meet many different needs we have as clinicians.
There is a different type of connection built in the office than online and vice versa. In person works better for some clients where online works better for others. When you allow yourself the ability to provide treatment through multiple avenues you can better provide services to your clients.
Finding a Position That Meets Your Needs AND Your Client’s Needs
It is important for you as a clinician to feel competent and rewarded in your practice. Where and how you practice can make a huge difference. If you are missing seeing clients in person you aren’t alone.
As a clinician, you know that all or nothing thinking doesn’t work. While you may know that, you may still hold yourself to these standards. You don’t have to be an online therapist OR an in person therapist. You can take a hybrid approach to your practice. You can be both. This can be far more rewarding for you and your clients. When you are true to your own professional needs you can show up better for your clients as well. Practice what you preach my fellow therapist friends and be true to yourself!
*If you are interested in becoming an independent contractor with CCS and you are a licensed therapist or psychiatric professional in North Carolina, send your cover letter and resume to the following email: Applicants@CarolinaCounselingServices.com
