OPEN: Mon-Fri: 9am to 5pm | Sat & Sunday: CLOSED

2 Sheppard Avenue East, Suite 302, Toronto, ON, M2N 5Y7

Virtual Therapy

Is virtual therapy effective?

Research has shown that online therapy can be equally as effective as in-person
treatment. The major component of effective therapy involves the relationship between the clinical therapist and the client. Our clinicians at TPSRC are trained professionals and have experience in creating a therapeutic environment and connection with clients through the online platform, whether it be video or telephone. The goals in therapy remain the same whether one is getting help in person or online. Therefore, if the client is willing to engage in virtual therapy, they will continue making therapeutic gains no matter the medium.

How do you establish a relationship with your therapist via virtual therapy?

Developing rapport with clients is a vital component of therapy, whether in-person or online. Our clinical therapists are skilled in establishing this important relationship and engage in a collaborative process to ensure the client’s comfort level throughout the entirety of the process.

How do you engage children in virtual therapy?

Individuals of all ages can participate in virtual therapy. For young children who may have difficulty remaining engaged for the 50-minute session, setting up a conducive environment is recommended. This may mean setting up an area that includes your child’s favourite toys, paper, and colouring materials. Your therapist can also utilize these toys or materials to engage your child in therapeutic activities. Through play therapy, your child can learn how to communicate with others, express their feelings, modify their behaviour, and develop problem-solving skills to resolve the issue(s) at hand.

What does virtual therapy look like?

Virtual therapy is a continuation of what each client has been working on in counselling. Through collaborative goal setting, your therapist will use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based practice, to address existing concerns. Using our virtual platform, we use both Screen Share and Whiteboard features to visually demonstrate key components of therapy and in doing so, create an interactive and engaging experience.

CBT can be used across demographics including children, adolescents, adults, couples, groups, and families. Therapy can include increasing emotional awareness and articulation, providing psychoeducation on presenting issues, developing coping strategies, and replacing negative thought patterns. Your therapist will utilize CBT exercises, provide direct support, and recommend homework assignments to continue the therapeutic process outside of session for optimal results.

Where should I set up to engage in virtual therapy?

Due to the nature of virtual therapy, it is possible that family members may be around during the time of session which can make individuals feel uncomfortable to share openly. This is completely understandable, but there are ways to overcome this issue that many of our clients have reported success with including:

  • Find a separate room within your home.
  • Sit in your backyard.
  • Go to a nearby park.
  • Sit in your car.
  • Wear headphones.
  • Book timings that work for you.
  • Encourage others in the household to wear headphones, watch television, or listen to music during your session.

What happens if I get disconnected?

If your internet disconnects during session, your therapist will reach out to you directly either via restarting the Zoom link or through telephone. If connectivity issues continue to be a concern, our therapists can offer phone sessions to prevent lost time. Additionally, you can always contact the office directly at 416-531-0727.