Working Online with Suicidal Clients in the Age of COVID with John Sommers-Flanagan

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Working Online with Suicidal Clients in the Age of COVID with John Sommers-Flanagan

Overview

Adapting to Online Therapy with Suicidal Clients in the COVID Era

As the world has been upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health issues have surged, particularly among vulnerable individuals, including those dealing with suicidal thoughts. In his insightful presentation, “Working Online with Suicidal Clients in the Age of COVID,” John Sommers-Flanagan provides therapists with essential strategies and frameworks for navigating this challenging landscape. Given the rise in feelings of isolation and distress, online therapy emerges as a critical support system, though it presents unique challenges and opportunities.

The Pandemic’s Impact on Mental Health

The pandemic has drastically intensified existing mental health challenges. Sommers-Flanagan highlights that “the wounds of isolation run deep,” referring to the rising anxiety and depression among the general population. Research during the pandemic has shown a staggering increase in mental health struggles, with over 40% more people experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The isolation, financial instability, and abrupt changes to daily life have caused many to feel disconnected and uncertain about their future.

While transitioning to online therapy has been difficult, it has allowed therapists to maintain a lifeline of support for their clients, especially when in-person sessions were no longer feasible. Although virtual therapy can sometimes feel impersonal, Sommers-Flanagan argues that it can still bridge the gap, offering necessary emotional support in times of crisis. His approach encourages therapists to rethink their methods, focusing on building strong connections despite the barriers posed by technology.

Shifting Therapeutic Approaches for Virtual Sessions

To succeed in an online setting, therapists must adapt their therapeutic techniques. The therapeutic alliance—critical in any setting—becomes even more important when face-to-face interaction is not possible. Sommers-Flanagan emphasizes the importance of adapting to the virtual environment by actively listening and making a conscious effort to read non-verbal cues that are often harder to interpret online.

Key Strategies for Engagement and Assessment

Sommers-Flanagan recommends several strategies to foster a productive and empathetic online therapeutic environment:

• Active Listening: Allow clients to share their thoughts without interruption, showing empathy and attentiveness.

• Utilizing Technology: Make use of virtual tools, such as visual aids or therapeutic apps, to enhance the online experience.

• Strengths-Based Approach: Encourage clients to reflect on their strengths, providing them with coping mechanisms to manage their challenges.

These techniques facilitate crucial conversations, especially about suicide, and create an environment where clients feel safe to discuss their struggles.

Ensuring a Safe and Supportive Online Environment

Creating an online environment where clients feel comfortable is key to the success of virtual therapy. Sommers-Flanagan advises that therapists establish clear guidelines for virtual sessions, ensuring that both therapists and clients are comfortable with the technology. Regular check-ins to ensure emotional and technical comfort are essential, as online platforms can sometimes contribute to feelings of detachment.

Building Trust in Online Therapy

The therapeutic alliance remains essential in online settings. Sommers-Flanagan discusses how trust can still flourish in virtual therapy if therapists are consistent, empathetic, and transparent. When clients trust their therapist, they are more likely to engage in discussions about their emotional pain and suicidality, ultimately leading to more effective treatment.

Strengthening Resilience Through Wellness Activities

Given the emotional toll the pandemic has taken, focusing on resilience has become even more important. Sommers-Flanagan advocates for a strengths-based approach to therapy that highlights the inherent resilience clients possess. By helping clients identify their strengths, therapists can use wellness activities to empower them to cope with their challenges.

Wellness Activities to Foster Resilience

Key wellness practices that can support clients’ resilience include:

• Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation or deep breathing to reduce anxiety.

• Journaling: Encouraging clients to express their feelings and thoughts in writing, which can serve as a therapeutic outlet.

• Physical Activity: Simple exercises to help clients manage stress and improve emotional regulation.

By incorporating these wellness practices into therapy, therapists can help clients navigate their difficulties with a renewed sense of agency.

Addressing Special Considerations in Teletherapy

Therapists must also address specific challenges related to online therapy, especially when assessing suicidal risk remotely. Sommers-Flanagan outlines essential strategies to evaluate risk and ensure safety during virtual sessions.

Assessing Risk Online

Some of the strategies to assess suicidal risk in an online environment include:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Conducting thorough assessments of a client’s suicidal history, support systems, and coping mechanisms.

• Safety Planning: Developing safety plans with clients, including emergency contacts, crisis resources, and coping strategies.

• Frequent Follow-Ups: Ensuring regular check-ins to monitor clients’ emotional state and assess their safety.

These practices are vital to ensure that online therapy remains effective and adaptive to clients’ needs.

The Importance of Cultural Competence

Cultural competence plays a significant role in effective online therapy. Sommers-Flanagan reminds therapists to consider clients’ cultural backgrounds and societal influences when creating treatment plans. Being sensitive to these factors fosters an inclusive therapeutic environment where clients feel valued and understood.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Online Therapy

The insights provided by John Sommers-Flanagan offer valuable guidance for therapists working with suicidal clients in the age of COVID. As the mental health landscape continues to evolve, fostering strong therapeutic alliances, utilizing technological tools, and focusing on clients’ resilience are essential to delivering effective online therapy. Although the challenges are significant, these strategies enable mental health professionals to provide crucial support to those in need.

As therapists continue to adapt to the changing landscape of mental health care, Sommers-Flanagan’s framework provides the tools necessary to build a meaningful connection with clients, even in the face of physical distance. This commitment to growth, understanding, and collaboration will be key in navigating the road to healing, even amid unprecedented times.