Interviewing for a Teletherapy Position? You're Ready, But Don't Forget the Setting!

So, you're all set for that teletherapy interview; your resume is polished, your experience is top-notch, and your virtual background is... wait, what’s that in the background? A bedroom? A kid's playroom? Maybe even (I hope not) a bathroom? Let’s make sure your setting screams "professional therapist" and not "working from the kitchen counter!"

Here's What to Do and Not Do During Your Teletherapy Interview:

1. Do: Choose Your Workspace Wisely

Your interview setting should reflect where you intend to work once you get the job. If you’ll be conducting therapy from a home office, that's where you should interview from. Set up in a quiet, distraction-free environment with a professional-looking background. A neutral wall, tidy bookshelves, or a professional virtual background will keep the focus on you, not what’s behind you.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check what's visible behind you. A pile of laundry or your kids’ toys might send the wrong message.

2. Don’t: Have People Walking in the Background

As much as we love family, an interview isn't the time for surprise guest appearances. Whether it’s your spouse grabbing a snack or your dog making a cameo, these distractions can break your focus—and theirs. Make sure you’re in a private space with the door closed, and maybe even let everyone know that “it’s interview time”!

Pro Humor: Your family walking by might not be as funny as you think. "Oh, just my partner grabbing a sandwich!" probably won’t impress your future employer. ??

3. Do: Test Your Wi-Fi Connection

You’ll be spending a lot of time on video calls as a teletherapist, so ensure your internet connection is strong enough for uninterrupted sessions. If your video freezes mid-sentence during the interview, it could make for an awkward moment. Test your Wi-Fi speed in advance and position yourself where the signal is strongest.

Pro Tip: It’s not just a job interview—consider it a Wi-Fi audition too. They’ll want to know if your tech is reliable.

4. Don’t: Use a Distracting Background

A virtual background of a tropical beach may be fun, but it’s not appropriate for a teletherapy interview. You want to project a calm, professional vibe—nothing that distracts from the conversation. Instead, opt for a neutral background or even blur your real surroundings if you're not in a dedicated office.

Pro Humor: The only waves your interviewer should see are the ones you make when you greet them!

5. Do: Dress for Success (Yes, Even on Video!)

It’s tempting to wear pajama pants (hey, we’ve all been there), but remember: your professional appearance is key—even online. Wear the same attire you would for an in-person interview. First impressions matter, and in teletherapy, your appearance builds trust from the very beginning.

Pro Tip: No t-shirts, no exceptions! Dress for the job you want, from top to... just above your knees. We’re still on Zoom after all.

6. Don’t: Forget About Lighting

Good lighting can make all the difference. Make sure you’re well-lit, so the interviewer can see your face clearly. Natural lighting is great, but if that’s not possible, use a ring light or a desk lamp to brighten your face without casting harsh shadows. No one wants to look like they’re broadcasting from a cave!

Pro Tip: Lighting isn’t just about visibility—it shows you’re prepared and thoughtful about the client’s experience too.

7. Do: Use Good Audio and Camera Setup

Your interviewer needs to hear and see you clearly. Invest in a good quality microphone and camera—built-in laptop microphones and webcams can often result in poor audio or a blurry image. Test them out before your interview to make sure everything is working properly. This shows that you're not only prepared but that you're tech-savvy enough to handle teletherapy.

Pro Humor: Just like in therapy, it’s all about being heard! And while pixelated Picasso might be fun in art, you want your interviewer to see you, not a blurry version of you.

Teletherapy is all about creating a safe, professional environment for clients—and it starts with your interview. Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to impress your future employer, not just with your experience, but with your attention to detail and preparedness. After all, the setting is part of the therapy! ??

Good luck, and may your Wi-Fi be strong and your background flawless!

#Teletherapy#AlssaroCounselingServices#TherapistTips #VirtualInterviews #JobSearch