Dear Practitioner

It’s important to realise that not all businesses and industries have been negatively affected by Covid-19. Some have been working differently and online. Through chaos comes new order and the more adaptable a business can be, the higher the chance of success. 

Without using all the cliche words, we are still working hard to keep you informed and aware of any relevant COVID-19 updates and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

If like many of us, you feel like you are riding a coronavirus rollercoaster, just about hanging on by your unkempt fingernails, fully embracing and accepting the situation one moment, creating crafts, enjoying the sunshine or doing not very much at all, before rapidly sinking into periods of panic and despair, fuelled by fear and uncertainty, wondering where to even start thinking about how to do things differently, don’t worry because your business is as unique as you are and if something doesn’t completely align with your own values, then it’s probably not for you. 

You are in the driving seat and have complete control. But what if clients expectations have changed during covid-19? If providing online services seems to be jumping up and down in front of you and screaming in your face, but still doesn’t feel right, before dismissing it completely, explore the many options available to you. Type into Google any questions or concerns you may have and watch some helpful YouTube videos on the subject, you may find something that gently sings to your heart, helps you see its benefits from a different perspective and you may just find something which sits more in alignment with your business values.

We really enjoyed running our own “Ask the Expert” webinar recently with expert host Jayney Goddard, President of The Complementary Medical Association and guest speaker Ani de la Prida, a Creative Arts Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Founder of the Association of Person Centred Creative Arts and Dandelion Workshops. Ani shared tips and advice on how engaging in creative activities can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mental health, develop resilience and problem solving skills. If you missed it, you can catch it again here. Our next Ask The Expert webinar is being held on Thursday 25th June 2020 at 3.30pm and our guest this month is Dr Colin Clerkin from Clerkin Psychology Services Ltd. Colin will be sharing advice on getting started in private practice. Please do share and sign up here.

The FHT are regularly updating their statement on coronavirus supporting therapists during COVID-19 and provide really useful insights around preparing to return to therapy practice. Check it out for one of the more recent updates “When it’s safe to return to full practice, should I be wearing a face mask or covering?“. 

The CPD Standards Office recently ran a great webinar “Developing Resilience For Trainers, Coaches & Educators: How to Cope With The Psychological Pressures of Covid-19”.  You can watch a recorded version of the webinar here. CPDSO is offering free 30-minute phone consultations for its members, to provide additional support, and give specific guidance around developing and delivering, online learning. Please watch this video that explains the benefits of the call and use this Calendly link to book a call with CPDSO.

We recently visited a comprehensive hub of Coronavirus Business Help designed to help keep businesses going. Take a quick look for yourself, I can promise you will find at least one thing of interest. 

If you’re considering or already using video consultations, telehealth or Zoom in your practice here’s a highly informative guide called: Video Consultations: A Complete Guide for Private Practitioners (2020) created by the team at WriteUpp to help you navigate this increasingly popular way of working. It’s a fabulous resource, totally product-neutral and an invaluable read. 

Rehab My Patient has launched Tele Rehab, free for all subscribers to use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tele Rehab enables subscribers to make video consultations and group sessions (suitable for Pilates, group rehab). It’s easy to use, simply login (or register for a free account), select your patient and launch. Email the weblink to your patient and join the room to begin a secure online video consultation where you can demonstrate exercises, rehab, advice or guidance. Afterwards, you’ll be able to send exercise plans to your patients. If any PPH member and non-subscriber would like free access during this period, register here.

Keep yourself informed

GOV.UK Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Business Support – note that the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme has now been extended and you can make a claim for a second and final grant in August 2020.
National Health Service Coronavirus Advice for Everyone
World Health Organisation Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic
Public Health England COVID-19 infection prevention and control
FHT – Return to work advice
ORCHA – free webinars, health and care apps to help elderly and vulnerable categories
ACTO

PPH blogs
How to Cope With The Psychological Pressures of Covid-19
How Webinars can help Therapists
Use Zoom to engage with clients

We are in no doubt, there is a lot of preparation ahead for therapists who are now working differently and also for those who are planning to return to practice, and we want to ensure you have the knowledge and resources to support you.

We love receiving your feedback so if you have any interesting, comforting or uplifting tips, guidance, videos, stories or blogs etc for sharing to support, motivate and encourage others please get in touch and let us know.

If you found this newsletter helpful, please feel free to share it with your colleagues.

Best wishes
Geoff