Telehealth and Nutrition Therapy (September 2020)

Since the quarantine began March 2020, everyone’s world has been rattled. Many businesses are closed and have gradually been opening based on the state they are in while others have been fortunate to do our jobs virtually.

Many of us have seen various appointments on hold until life returns “back to normal.” Sadly, this is our “new normal.”  Brene Brown has phrased what has gone on in our world in an excellent manner. She states “during a time of disaster in our country, our bodies tend to run and function on adrenaline. This is what gets us through the short amount of time we need to live. Well, this disaster has gotten to a point where our bodies are running out of adrenaline. We have barreled past the idea that isolation and social distancing will only last a few weeks and we are settling in for a new type of normal.”     

I have observed all business become virtual including mental health, nutritional, medical, the academic world, legal practices, the entertainment industry, free lancers, accountants, sales representatives, IT support, marketing managers, the list could go on-and-on.

Since this is our new “normal,” many professionals have had to become familiar with providing services virtually. I have always worked virtually with some clients, however, since the COVID-19 outbreak, my practice has been entirely virtual and may remain so until there is a vaccine for COVID-19.   It is interesting to see how our attitudes and belief systems are changing over these challenging months. Previously, we may have said that we prefer to see people in person. Now, our reality is that we no longer have a choice.   I believe, as a clinician, that it is important to be available and supportive to assist clients in whatever capacity is available.

Even so, this transition has been overwhelming and challenging for so many and, if you are reeling, you are not alone. Remember that you have a unique opportunity in this moment to support others through what may be the most difficult time of their lives.

The adjustments we are making are not ideal but there are creative ways to create a global community while maintaining distance.

This pandemic has opened my mind to numerous virtual meal services such as snack support, cooking demonstrations, and, of course, talk therapy.  Tuning into your emotional flexibility and creative toolbox this time will be so helpful in adjusting to these changes.

If you are a professional making the transition to virtual services, it is necessary to note that it is best practice to use a platform that is HIPAA compliant. Our clients share so much with us and it is our job to provide them support while maintaining their privacy.

The reality is, we are taking our old focus of keeping our clients and ourselves safe and shifting it because what was once safe is not at the moment.

Think about how you can approach your clients in a different manner that will support them in this pandemic. It is absolutely possible to provide meaningful support virtually.

With all of this in mind, please remember to also take care of yourself. It can be a challenge to support others when you yourself are struggling. Show yourself the same compassion and support that you bring to your clients and do not hesitate to reach out for your own virtual help if needed.

I am thinking of you all during this time and wishing you well.