Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Virtual Sessions
By Yana Shenker, LCSW-R
Founder, Resilient Mind Psychotherapy – Brooklyn, NY
Online therapy has made mental health care more accessible than ever. Whether you’re juggling work, parenting, or just value the comfort of your own space, virtual therapy allows you to receive high-quality, compassionate care without commuting or rearranging your day.
But one key to making online therapy sessions successful is your environment.
Creating a space that’s both private and emotionally safe can significantly impact how comfortable, open, and focused you feel. At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy, we help clients across Brooklyn, NYC, and New York State make the most of their telehealth therapy experience by supporting them in setting up therapy-friendly spaces at home.
Here’s how you can do the same—whether you live in a studio apartment in Williamsburg or a shared home in Bay Ridge.
Why Your Therapy Environment Matters
Online therapy isn’t just a phone call—it’s a therapeutic space. Even though you’re not entering a physical office, the virtual space you create influences:
-
Your sense of safety
-
Your ability to focus
-
Your emotional availability
-
Your confidentiality and privacy
You don’t need a perfectly decorated office. You just need intentionality.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Private Space for Online Therapy
🪑 1. Choose a Consistent Location
Pick a place in your home where you feel physically and emotionally comfortable. This could be:
-
A corner of your bedroom
-
A spare room or home office
-
A quiet spot on your balcony
-
Even your parked car (yes, many clients do this!)
If privacy is a concern, consider options like using white noise outside your door or placing a “Do Not Disturb” sign.
Pro tip: The brain loves familiarity. Returning to the same space for therapy helps you feel grounded session after session.
🎧 2. Use Headphones (Always)
Headphones improve both sound quality and privacy. They:
-
Prevent others from hearing the therapist’s voice
-
Help you focus and feel more immersed
-
Block background noise (especially helpful in NYC apartments)
Wireless or noise-canceling headphones are ideal, but even basic earbuds work well.
🧘 3. Make It Emotionally Safe
Add small, calming touches to your space:
-
A soft blanket or pillow
-
A candle or essential oil diffuser
-
A framed photo or quote
-
A plant or natural light
These small details help your brain shift from “everyday mode” to “self-reflection mode.”
📶 4. Test Your Tech Ahead of Time
Make sure:
-
Your Wi-Fi signal is strong
-
Your camera angle is steady and natural (eye-level)
-
Your lighting is soft but clear (avoid bright windows behind you)
Most telehealth therapy sessions are conducted over secure platforms like Zoom, SimplePractice, or Doxy.me. Log in early to troubleshoot if needed.
🔕 5. Eliminate Distractions
Online therapy works best when you’re fully present.
Before each session:
-
Silence notifications
-
Close unnecessary browser tabs
-
Let household members know you’ll be unavailable
-
Consider scheduling after a meal or light snack to avoid distractions from hunger
🚪 6. Handle Shared Spaces Strategically
If you live with roommates, a partner, or family:
-
Schedule sessions during quieter hours
-
Use white noise machines or apps outside your door
-
Ask for privacy in advance—most people will understand
-
In tight situations, use your car as a backup therapy space (many clients report success with this!)
🕯️ 7. Set the Mood—Even 5 Minutes Before
Arriving emotionally prepared can make a big difference. Try:
-
A few deep breaths or a short meditation
-
Writing down one goal or emotion you want to explore
-
Closing your eyes and checking in with your body
A small ritual before you log on can center you for a deeper session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I don’t have total privacy?
A: That’s okay. Many clients use headphones, play soft background noise, or schedule sessions when others are out. Your therapist can help you troubleshoot options.
Q: Can I do virtual therapy from work?
A: Yes—if you have access to a private office or room. Just make sure you’re in a calm environment where you can speak freely.
Q: Do I need a fancy setup?
A: Not at all. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s comfort, safety, and presence. Most clients use their phones or laptops from a simple, familiar spot.
Virtual Therapy That Works—From Wherever You Are
Whether you live in a walk-up in Cobble Hill or a high-rise in Midtown, online therapy gives you access to professional care without the added stress of commuting or rearranging your life.
At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy, we specialize in telehealth therapy for anxiety, trauma, depression, and more. We offer:
-
Flexible scheduling
-
Licensed NYC-based therapists
-
Online sessions across New York State
-
Insurance options (Cigna, Aetna, Fidelis Care, 1199SEIU)
If you’ve been hesitating because you don’t have the “perfect” setup—this is your sign to begin anyway.
You can build your therapy space. You can build your healing.
📍 Serving:
Brooklyn • Park Slope • Williamsburg • Bay Ridge • Downtown NYC • Across New York State
Start Your Online Therapy Journey Today
💻 Explore our online therapy options →
✍️ About the Author
Yana Shenker, LCSW-R is the founder of Resilient Mind Psychotherapy in Brooklyn, NY. With over 15 years of experience, she supports high-achieving adults, couples, and families through anxiety, burnout, trauma, and transitions—both online and in-person.
