Introduction
By: Online Therapy of Texas
At Online Therapy of Texas, we know that one of the most important parts of therapy is the relationship you build with your therapist. This connection—rooted in trust, empathy, and mutual respect—creates a safe space where real growth and healing can happen. When you feel truly seen and understood by your therapist, therapy becomes more than just a conversation—it becomes a meaningful experience that supports change. And yes, even when sessions happen through a screen, that kind of strong, supportive relationship is absolutely possible.
If you’re starting virtual therapy or transitioning from in-person care, you might wonder: Will I really be able to connect with my therapist online? The answer is yes—and we’re here to show you how. Below are some simple, actionable ways to build a strong therapeutic relationship in a virtual setting.
1. Be Open About Your Expectations and Goals
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or just feeling stuck, it’s helpful to talk openly about what you’re hoping to gain from therapy. You don’t need to have everything figured out—just sharing what brought you to therapy is enough to start.
Why it matters: When you’re clear (even vaguely) about your needs or expectations, your therapist can tailor their approach to better support your journey.
– Tip from Online Therapy of Texas: You can start as simply as saying, “I’m not sure what I need, but I know I need help.” That honesty lays the groundwork for real progress.
2. Create a Comfortable, Private Therapy Space
Your environment matters. One of the unique benefits of online therapy is the ability to choose where your sessions happen—but that space needs to feel safe, quiet, and free of distractions.
Try this: Sit in a cozy chair, use headphones for privacy, and keep tissues or a notebook nearby. You might also want to set your phone to Do Not Disturb or turn off notifications to stay present.
– Confidentiality tip: If you’re worried about being overheard, consider using a white noise machine or fan outside the room.
3. Be Honest and Transparent, Even When It’s Hard
Therapy isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being real. If something feels uncomfortable, confusing, or not quite right, let your therapist know. The best therapeutic relationships are built on open communication.
This includes how you’re feeling about therapy itself. If you’re unsure about the process or the pacing, bring it up—your therapist will appreciate your honesty and adjust if needed.
-Tip: Feeling vulnerable doesn’t mean you’re doing therapy “wrong.” It often means you’re digging into the things that matter.
4. Give the Relationship Time to Grow
Therapy is not a quick fix—and building a relationship with your therapist is no different. While some clients feel connected right away, for others it may take a few sessions to feel comfortable. Both experiences are completely normal.
Don’t rush the process. Let trust develop naturally. You don’t have to share everything immediately—start with what feels manageable.
– At Online Therapy of Texas, we encourage a pace that feels right for you, while gently helping you explore the areas that brought you to therapy.
5. Engage Between Sessions (If You Can)
Growth doesn’t only happen in the therapy hour. Reflecting on your sessions, journaling, or applying small insights between appointments can deepen your experience and keep momentum going.
Helpful tools: Keep a therapy journal, track your emotions, or jot down key takeaways after sessions. Some therapists also offer optional exercises or prompts to explore on your own.
Tip: If your therapist provides secure messaging, use it to share thoughts, questions, or reflections in between sessions.
6. Ask Questions and Be Curious
It’s perfectly okay to ask your therapist about how they work or why they’re using a particular approach. Therapy should feel collaborative, not one-sided.
Examples of questions to ask:
• “Can you tell me more about the type of therapy you practice?”
• “How will we track progress together?”
• “What should I expect as we dive into this topic?”
– Your curiosity helps shape your experience—and shows that you’re invested in the process.
7. Revisit and Adjust Your Goals Over Time
Therapy isn’t static—your needs and goals may evolve, and that’s a good thing. As you grow, your therapist should support you in checking in on progress and redefining your focus if needed.
At Online Therapy of Texas, our therapists view goal-setting as a living process. We encourage ongoing dialogue about what’s working and what you’d like to explore next.
Final Thoughts
Online therapy offers flexibility, comfort, and access—but the heart of therapy remains the same: the relationship between you and your therapist. When that relationship feels safe and strong, healing can happen—whether you’re in the same room or meeting virtually.
At Online Therapy of Texas, we’re committed to helping you build that relationship from the very first session. Our licensed therapists are trained in providing effective, empathetic care through secure virtual platforms, so you can feel supported wherever you are.
