I recently started offering phone counseling sessions, and have found that it can be a positive, effective method of receiving therapy in Oklahoma. Phone counseling sessions can offer a convenient and versatile way to seek support and guidance.
Finding your own space that ensures peace, privacy, and tranquility for a satisfying counseling experience can sometimes be challenging. However, the ability to choose your own therapeutic setting can be an empowering experience, allowing you to customize your counseling session to fit your own sense of comfort. I encourage you to use this list to inspire you to try something new at your next phone counseling session
when you’re ready
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Embracing Nature in a Local Park
If you’re in South Tulsa, Hunter Park offers walking trails, a dog park, disc golf, a duck pond, and more!
There's something therapeutic about being surrounded by nature's beauty. Local parks can provide the perfect setting for a phone counseling session in Oklahoma that fosters a sense of peace and tranquility. Find a quiet spot under a tree or on a bench where you can sit comfortably and engage in meaningful conversation with your counselor. The sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling in the gentle breeze can create a calming backdrop for the call. You also have the option to walk, which can be helpful to ensure privacy and to help with restless energy. Being outside can also help you feel grounded, reducing stress and promoting openness during your phone counseling session.
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Your Sanctuary at Home
When looking for privacy during a phone counseling session, consider creating your own special space at home. Choose a quiet and comfortable room, away from any potential disturbances. Make it a cozy space with gentle lighting, calming or inspiring decorations, and (most importantly) a comfortable place to sit. Declutter the area to reduce distraction and increase relaxation. Inform family members or roommates about the scheduled counseling session to ensure interruptions are kept to a minimum–even ask for your own to be empty, if possible. Having your personal sanctuary can help you get into a contemplative, engaged mindset for counseling, allowing you to explore your feelings and emotions openly with your counselor.
Inspiring Library Nooks
Libraries often offer quiet corners and reading nooks that can serve as ideal spaces for phone counseling sessions. Seek out a local library in Oklahoma with reading areas or study rooms where you can have privacy. Surrounded by books and knowledge, you may feel inspired and at ease during your counseling call. Libraries also enforce a sense of quiet and respect for others, which can contribute to a positive atmosphere for your counseling session–some even have welcoming outdoor areas where you can find a quiet space to yourself. Make sure to check the library's policy on phone calls beforehand and ensure you won't be disturbing others while you converse with your counselor–many libraries offer the ability to reserve rooms for meetings and private time. Please make sure you follow all library rules, and be respectful of other visitors.
Tulsa Central Library in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma offers a kiosk that can be rented for telehealth appointments. Click the image for more info
Quiet in the Car
Since I began offering telehealth appointments, I’ve conducted hundreds of sessions talking to a client who was in their car at a time. They often are on their lunch break from work, having a session in the parking lot. They also might just be in the driveway outside of their home, taking time away from their family to have a phone counseling session. Sometimes they're on their commute home, or running errands. One huge benefit has been the ability to conduct sessions with people who drive for a living, as they can have their sessions on long stretches of the turnpike between cities. Whatever your reason, your car can be a versatile space for a quiet, private phone counseling session
A disclaimer: Not all sessions are appropriate for this particular setting. I don’t recommend doing phone sessions in areas of heavy traffic, lots of construction, or if you’re driving somewhere unfamiliar. I also don’t recommend talking about trauma and other strongly-triggering content while driving, both due to the safety implications and because driving can distract from the therapeutic process. It’s up to your judgment to decide what is safe and appropriate for you, and this is something we can discuss together.
Embrace the Great Outdoors: Hiking Trails
Turkey Mountain offers quiet, shady trails with multiple difficulty levels in Tulsa, Oklahoma
If you enjoy spending time outdoors and crave a sense of adventure, consider heading to a nearby hiking trail for your phone counseling session. Choose a trail that is not overly challenging and offers peaceful surroundings. The act of walking in nature is therapeutic in itself–physical activity releases endorphins, enhancing your emotional well-being. Remember to find a spot with a good phone signal so you can maintain a clear and uninterrupted connection with your counselor, and consider getting a Bluetooth headset to keep your hands free.
Click here to find a hiking trail near you
Conclusion
Incorporating phone counseling into your mental health journey can be a positive and empowering experience. To ensure a satisfying session, seek out places that provide peace, privacy, and a comfortable environment. Whether you embrace one of these ideas or come up with your own, the key is to find a space where you can comfortably express yourself and engage in a meaningful conversation with your counselor.