Counseling

Virtual Therapy Information

Policy + Instructions

In the interest of the health and safety of the Wofford community, appointments/sessions may be conducted virtually, at the discretion of Counseling Services. You may speak with your counseling provider directly to determine if meeting virtually is the best option for you. Please use the information below to help you get familiar with the virtual therapy process.

How to check-in for your Virtual Therapy Session

  1. Watch an instructional video
  2. 5-10 minutes prior to your appointment we ask that you go to the Wellness Center Patient Portal and complete the “Check-In” form for your appointment.
  3. Failure to complete the form prior to your appointment may result in your therapist asking you to complete it before you begin your session. Completing it beforehand will ensure that you do not have to use your session time to do so.

How to log-in for your Virtual Therapy Session

    Considerations for Virtual Therapy

    • Set-Up - Many devices may be used for your virtual therapy session (phone, tablet, laptop), but we suggest using a device that can be placed on a stable surface which will allow you to be at eye level with your camera. Lighting is important too. Make sure that you are lit so that your therapist can see your face. Daylight is best, but if not available, you may need to bring a lamp to help light you. Your therapist will also try to make sure that her face is visible to you. Don't be afraid to let her know if she needs to adjust her screen to make her more visible to you during your session. Also, be aware of any ambient noise that may make it difficult to hear you.
    • Privacy - One of the important elements of therapy is your privacy. Your therapist will do her part to ensure that you have a private and confidential experience. Please do your best to create that for yourself as well. Select a room where you can expect to be by yourself. Consider using earbuds or headphones which will help prevent others from overhearing your therapist. You may also choose to use a sound machine or white noise (a fan) to help protect the privacy of what you are discussing if you are in a place that is not soundproof. Consider locking doors or putting a sign out to discourage people from entering your room when you are meeting. If it seems that someone has entered the room, your therapist will pause and ask you if it is okay to continue.
    • Supplies - While in your therapist's office, she is likely to provide you with various materials that might help your therapy. In virtual therapy, you will need to be prepared with some items. Consider having some paper and writing instruments available to complete any written exercises or take notes. You may also choose to have coloring sheets, crayons, or colored pencils. Any other items that help you to feel comfortable are encouraged (fidgets, weighted blankets, a cup of tea, etc.).
    • Connection & Technical Issues - Before your session, you may want to restart your computer or close any unnecessary browsers, programs, or windows. When you are in the virtual waiting area, you may choose to do the "Pre-call Test" located in the bottom left corner of your screen. This will help you to identify any issues that may cause difficulties. Some people have experienced more success with the Safari browser, others have done fine with Chrome. If you are repeatedly having difficulties, consider switching your browser.
    • Emergencies & Code Words - There may be times when an emergency arises. If you feel unsafe and need to end the session it is a good idea to have a code word that will alert your therapist to your need to end the session. Talk with your therapist about situations in which you would need to use the code word.

    Informed Consent for Virtual Therapy