Telehealth/Teletherapy
COVID-19 ALERT! Currently, due to the pandemic all appointments are conducted virtually which helps with social distancing and slowing the spread of COVID-19.
About Telehealth/Teletherapy
What is Telehealth/Teletherapy?
Telehealth/Teletherapy is a real and effective method that is revolutionizing the world of psychotherapy. No longer do you have to go to a therapist’s office and talk. Technology has made virtual and remote therapy easier than ever. Telehealth/Teletherapy is very similar to in-person therapy but online. Instead of going to a brick and motor office, you meet with the therapist through a secure video platform from the comfort of your own home or a safe and quiet space of your choosing. Sessions can be conducted on your phone, your tablet, or your computer! With Telehealth/Teletherapy you can meet with me anywhere that is convenient for you, as long as you are able to maintain privacy. Teletherapy allows for the convenience of having sessions from your home, office, or even your parked car.
Similar to FaceTime or other video call platforms, online counseling is an easy to use via HIPPA compliant platform video conferencing platform. I use iTherapy, a HIPPA compliant platform video conferencing platform. NOTE: I only offer teletherapy in the state of Pennsylvania, where I am licensed to provide service. While you can be located in where the world, even while traveling, you MUST be a PA resident (evidence by your driver’s license or other proof of residency) for the duration of therapy. So, wherever you are in Pennsylvania, from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and everywhere in between — like Towanda, PA! — you can get the counseling and collaborative therapy you need.
Is it as effective as in person therapy?
In person therapy definitely has its benefits and unique characteristics but research shows that teletherapy is just as effective as in person sessions. When I meet with someone online, I find they are more comfortable in their own space and tend to open up more, thus building the therapeutic relationship and leading to meaningful growth. Just like with in-person therapy, we’d discuss your goals and create your treatment plan accordingly.
Why Choose Telehealth/Teletherapy?
- Many people prefer working with a virtual therapist because they feel it is more confidential
- Comfort of the therapy space is determined by the individual seeking therapy
- The physical distance from the therapist, for many, allows clients to be more candid in the therapeutic process
- Finding the time is a common dilemma for busy people who need or desire time with a therapist
- Expert therapists may be difficult to locate where you live and telehealth opens your options
- People with disabilities, both physical and mental, can benefit from telephone or on-line therapy
Telehealth/Teletherapy Benefits
- Distance counseling provides safe, convenient, and affordable counseling at anytime and anywhere
- Distance counseling might also be arranged at times that are outside of typical office hours or a back-up-plan when a face-to-face session is not possible
- Access for clients who value their privacy and anonymity from the visibility of going to a physical office
- Clients are no longer limited by travel or inconvenienced by traffic
- Clients no longer have to travel in inclement weather to get the help they need
- Illness (depending on the severity) does not have to prevent you from getting to your session
Keep In Mind when Using Telehealth/Teletherapy
Therapy Space
Find a space that is comfortable, well lit, and allows you to focus on the session. A helpful hint during your session is to have a window or light in front of you, rather than behind you to avoid being backlit. Click the full-screen option to have a full view of the video. It can help you stay focused on the session and this allows us to see each other clearly. If viewing your video is distracting or makes you feel self-conscious, you can click the “x” on your video and only see me.
Confidentiality
Use of a secure, HIPAA compliant platform makes our sessions remain confidential but it’s up to you to find a space that has minimal distractions and is private (i.e. not in your living room while your kids are playing Xbox or when your roommates are making dinner in the background). The use of headphones are suggested to reduce noise and the concern of others being nearby who you may not want to hear the context of what is being discussed.
Technical Difficulties
Technology is not perfect and difficulties are bound to happen. Make sure you are connected to the internet. Test your connection ahead of your appointment. Communication is key so let me know if you have issues with the connection, logging into the session, or anything else related to getting the most out of your session. My job is to help address the stress or anxiety not add to it with technical difficulties. The iTherpay platform does provide some tech support to help you.
The Help You Need May Only be a Click Away
“Technology is best when it brings people together.”
Matt Mullenweg, Social Media Entrepreneur