How to build the therapeutic relationship in the teletherapy modality

Research shows the therapeutic relationship is essential for successful client outcomes in therapy. It helps to retain clients in the setting, adds to their motivation, promotes their disclosures, and allows for a safe space to do the therapy work. In the traditional, face-to-face model of counseling, the therapeutic alliance is built in small and larger ways through multiple components of the therapeutic process.

Some of the elements that promote the therapeutic relationship translate directly to the online teletherapy model and some do not. For example, your client will not be exposed to your therapeutic setting and office space, which might typically provide the foundation for building the therapeutic relationship and the subsequent therapy work. Additionally, just being behind a screen can make both the therapist and the client feel less connected or most distant during the therapeutic process.

Learn more about how to build the therapeutic relationship in the teletherapy modality:

Build Rapport

Just as in traditional therapy, your first step towards building the therapeutic relationship will be to establish and maintain a rapport with the client. Show up to your teletherapy sessions with a professional but relaxed and friendly appearance. Keep your gaze sometimes towards the camera to simulate eye contact and sometimes towards your screen to show you are paying attention to the client.

Use Nonverbals

In traditional therapy, you might help build rapport and the therapeutic alliance by using your body language to show attention and even to mirror the client’s posture. Although the teletherapy format will allow for less display and reading of nonverbal language, some can still be seen and shown. Lean in, tilt your head to match the client’s, nod, and display facial expressions congruent to the current discussion.

Show Empathy

In the traditional therapy space, empathy may be shown through nonverbal behaviors, including facial expressions and gestures. Although, you cannot show all those same gestures in the teletherapy space, minimal encouragers and small statements can be used to convey your empathy towards the client. The key is also to stay engaged with the client and remain responsive to the person, not just the screen.

Be Genuine

When clients arrive to counseling, there are often some casual moments before a session as you walk them to your office and settle into the therapy space. Small talk during this time can allow the therapist to be genuine through brief and appropriate self-disclosures. Teletherapy takes away some of these moments, but a therapist be genuine with small talk at the start of session and in reactions to content.

More resources

• Therapy resources and worksheets
• Therapy private practice courses
• Ultimate teletherapy ebook
• The Ultimate Insurance Billing Guide for Therapists
• The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Private Therapy Practice

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