All about digital consultations

Online appointments can seem scary. So we have put together some tips, of things that helped us. We hope they will help you too.

Voice call or video call?

“My ideas may not work for someone else who likes something different.”

• Don’t worry if you’re not sure which will suit you best.
• You can try one option to begin with and if it doesn’t work for you swap next time.
• But don’t forget, sometimes it just takes some time to get used to meeting this way.

Don’t worry if it feels difficult at first

It takes time to get to know a new worker and feel comfortable enough to talk. That’s okay. Take your time. Don’t expect too much of yourself at first. It will get easier.

You might find it very hard to get to grips with the digital sessions, don’t put too many expectations on yourself to be your usual self.

At times, the technology doesn’t work as well as it should, which is frustrating. It doesn’t happen a lot but if it does it normally gets sorted out pretty quickly.

Choose a comfortable, quiet, place

Choose somewhere you will not be disturbed or distracted if you can.

Prepare for your appointment

• Think about the things you want to talk about.
• It might help to write down questions, worries or issues you would like to discuss.
• If you think you may find it difficult to talk straightaway, write down what you’d like to say beforehand and read out your notes at the appointment or text/email them.
• You can also use the chat function during the meeting to text instead.

If it’s your first appointment you will be asked to describe the difficulties that you have been having and the effect they are having on you. You may also be asked how you are hoping CAMHS can help you. Consider how you will answer these questions.

Confidentiality

Choose a place to ‘meet’ where you will not be overheard or interrupted. For some home is a safe place in which to ‘meet’ their worker but not for everyone.

If possible, agree with other family members how they can help by respecting your privacy, giving you space during the call etc.

Using headphones and the ‘chat’ text function helps maintain privacy.