Telephone Counseling Murray UT

I remember a time when I was juggling a demanding job, young kids, and what felt like a million other responsibilities. The thought of adding one more thing to my plate, like driving to a therapy appointment, was enough to make me want to crawl back into bed. If you're feeling the same way, I want you to know that there's another option. Telephone therapy has been a game-changer for so many of my clients here in Utah, and it could be for you too. In this article, we'll explore how you can make telephone counseling a truly freeing experience.

A while back, a client of mine, a busy professional from Utah, was skeptical about telephone counseling. She was used to face-to-face interactions and worried that she wouldn't be able to connect with a therapist over the phone. But after just a few sessions, she told me how much she loved the convenience and privacy of it. She could have her sessions in her car during her lunch break, and she found that without the pressure of being on camera, she could be even more open and honest. Her story isn't unique, many people are discovering the power of telephone therapy.

What Is Telephone Counseling and How Can It Help?

Telephone counseling is just what it sounds like, therapy sessions that take place over the phone. It's a simple, straightforward way to get the support you need without the hassle of commuting or trying to find a quiet corner for a video call. For many people, especially those of us with packed schedules, it's a breath of fresh air. The National Institute of Mental Health says that psychotherapy can be a very effective tool for a lot of people.

The beauty of voice-only sessions is that they can feel more private and less intimidating. There's no need to worry about how you look or what's in the background. It's just you and your therapist, focused on what really matters, your mental health. This can be especially helpful if you're dealing with anxiety or just prefer the comfort of a simple phone call.

Create Your Private Sanctuary for Counseling Calls

Finding a quiet spot where you won't be interrupted is key to a successful telephone therapy session. This might be a home office, a bedroom, or even your car. The goal is to create a space where you feel safe and can speak freely. You might even want to have a cozy blanket or a warm cup of tea nearby to make the experience more comfortable.

Think of this as your personal sanctuary, a place where you can let your guard down and be yourself. It doesnt have to be perfect, but it should be a place where you can focus on your conversation without distractions. According to an article in Psychology Today, creating a dedicated space for therapy can make a big difference in how effective it is.

Embrace Honesty to Get the Most from Therapy

The more open you are with your therapist, the more they can help you. It can be tempting to downplay your struggles or put on a brave face, but remember that your therapist is there to support you, not judge you. Being honest about your feelings and experiences is the first step toward healing and growth.

It might feel a little strange at first, sharing your deepest thoughts with someone over the phone, but trust that your therapist is trained to listen with empathy and understanding. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership, and your honesty is a vital part of making it work.

Set Your Intentions and Track Your Journey

Having a notebook and pen handy during your sessions can be incredibly helpful. You can jot down insights, write down questions you want to ask, or make a note of things you want to work on between sessions. This can help you stay engaged in the process and track your progress over time.

Setting goals for therapy is also important. What do you hope to achieve? Do you want to learn new coping skills, improve your relationships, or work through a specific issue? Sharing your goals with your therapist will help them tailor your sessions to your needs and ensure that you're moving in the right direction.

Tune Out the Noise and Focus on You

Your therapy session is your time, so it's important to protect it from distractions. Turn off your notifications, put your computer to sleep, and let your family or roommates know that you need some uninterrupted time. The fewer distractions you have, the more you'll be able to focus on your conversation with your therapist.

It's easy to get sidetracked by a text message or an email, but for this one hour, give yourself permission to be fully present. You'll be amazed at how much more you get out of your session when you're not multitasking. A study from Harvard University shows how a quiet environment improves focus and learning.

Give Yourself Space Before and After Your Call

Just as you would with an in-person appointment, it's helpful to give yourself a few minutes to transition before and after your telephone therapy session. Before the call, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself of what you want to talk about. After the call, take some time to reflect on the conversation and let the insights sink in.

This transition time is a way to honor the work you're doing in therapy. It's a chance to shift from your busy day into a more reflective state of mind and then back again. This simple practice can make a big difference in how you integrate the benefits of therapy into your daily life.

Trust the Journey and Be Patient with Yourself

Building a strong therapeutic relationship takes time, whether it's in person or over the phone. Be patient with yourself and with the process. There will be sessions where you have big breakthroughs, and there will be sessions that feel more like quiet reflection. Both are valuable parts of the journey.

Trust that your therapist is there to guide and support you, even when the path isn't clear. Healing is not a linear process, and it's okay to have ups and downs. The most important thing is that you keep showing up for yourself.

Ready to see if telephone counseling is right for you? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a telephonic counseling?

Telephonic counseling is just a way to have therapy sessions over the phone. It's convenient and private, and it works really well for people who have busy schedules or who prefer not to use video.

Is there someone I can talk to for free?

Many therapists, including us, offer a free initial consultation so you can see if it's a good fit. This is a great way to ask questions and get a feel for how telephone counseling works without any commitment.

Is there a therapist I can call for free?

While ongoing therapy sessions are not typically free, that initial consultation is a no-cost way to speak with a therapist. There are also some community resources that may offer free or low-cost counseling, which you can find by searching online for local mental health services.

Can counseling be done over the phone?

Absolutely. Counseling over the phone is just as effective as in-person or video counseling for many people. It all comes down to finding a therapist you connect with and being open to the process.