From Virtual to Reality, Part 1: Navigating the Therapist's Transition
Keeping Secrets PodOctober 22, 202500:29:48

From Virtual to Reality, Part 1: Navigating the Therapist's Transition

After five years of working exclusively online, Sabrina is getting ready to return to in-person therapy—and she’s unpacking all the feelings that come with it. In this episode, she and Julia talk about what it’s like to swap screens for real-life sessions, the unexpected comfort of virtual work, and how the pandemic reshaped what “connection” looks like in therapy. They explore the nerves, the excitement, and the questions that come up when stepping back into the room after so long.

Takeaways
Sabrina has been strictly virtual for five years since the pandemic.
The energy in in-person therapy is different and more embodied.
Julia felt more comfortable in her new office setup compared to her previous one.
Telehealth has proven to be a powerful tool for therapist growth.
Clients may open up more easily in different settings.
The transition back to in-person therapy feels natural for both therapists.
Environmental factors significantly impact the therapy experience.
There is a bias in the industry regarding the effectiveness of telehealth.
Anticipation and preparation are key for returning to in-person sessions.

Chapters
00:00 - Therapists' Transition: In-Person vs. Online Sessions
03:18 - Experiences and Comfort Levels in Therapy
05:55 - The Impact of Environment on Therapy Sessions
08:38 - Navigating Client Dynamics: In-Person vs. Virtual
11:16 - Curating a Therapeutic Space: Home vs. Office
14:29 - The Evolution of Therapy: In-Person vs. Online
17:44 - The Comfort of Telehealth: A New Normal
21:34 - Returning to In-Person Therapy: Anticipations and Experiences
25:03 - Navigating Client Relationships Post-Pandemic
28:19 - Preparing for a New Space: The Therapist's Perspective