We understand it can be difficult to add ONE MORE THING to your already busy schedule. First, consider making time to attend therapy an investment in yourself, and a way to improve your overall level of stress, rather than a checkbox item.

 

Second, explore some of these strategies that have worked for our former patients:​​​​​

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Tip #1: Be creative with locations and times
Schedule a telehealth visit over your lunch break, during an administrative hour, or at the very beginning or end of your day. This works best if you can get to a private space to conduct the session.

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Here are some suggestions: Use a private office if you have one or can borrow one, a study room at the library, your car, an unused call room, an empty meeting room or work room.​

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Tip #2: Find a coverage buddy
If you work as part of a team and you are able to cover for each other, make an agreement with one of your colleagues. If they can cover for you while you attend a visit, you can return the favor and cover for them when they do too.

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Tip #3: Ask and you might receive!
Many providers or learners assume that if they ask to adjust their schedule to accommodate a recurring appointment, the answer will be "no." But the answer will definitely be no if you don't ask. You may be surprised that your administration or immediate supervisor is more supportive than you thought.

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Tip #4: Take advantage of varied shifts.
If you are on a rotation or a stretch of time where you work nights, and you feel like you could tolerate it, schedule your appointment right before your shift starts (late afternoon), or immediately after it is over (early morning).

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If you get a post-call day, this can be another great time to sneak in some therapy.

Some practices are beginning to allow providers to work varying schedules, such as 4 10-hour shifts. If you have a lot to balance, it can be helpful to have a weekday off to take care of appointments and other obligations.