Is it Time to Switch to Online Teletherapy?

Telehealth is any type of medical intervention whether it be a medical doctor, specialist, or even a therapist that occurs over a video conference online using a HIPPA protected website platform. Teletherapy is the term for online, real-time video sessions with a licensed therapist or counselor.

With pressure mounting to stay inside and avoid public places, people’s willingness to go to community mental health center for therapy has decreased. This is concerning as people’s anxiety around the Coronavirus has increased. So, what do we do when you need additional help, but want to avoid public places? You get therapy at home (or anywhere really), online.

Benefits to Online Therapy (Teletherapy)

In my personal opinion, online therapy is just as good, if not better than in-person therapy. You can roll out of bed (or stay in bed) and have a useful conversation about goals for the day. Online therapy offers you the convenience of being anywhere to get the clinical services you want. This means therapists, who are licensed in a state can see anyone from that state no matter how far.  For instance, I am Licensed in PA & NJ and have clients that would be over a 5-hour drive if we had to meet in person.  And, those in rural areas do not have to make a large commute to see a therapist, reducing the carbon footprint as. It also allows the client to be in a place where they are most comfortable to discuss delicate topics.

Online therapy platforms connect more patients with providers than ever before. And, in today’s healthcare world, convenience is key. Online therapy allows for emergent and flexible care if last minute support is needed. Clients can stay in their local communities, keeping their current schedule with work, family, friends, and other obligations without major disruption. I have also found my clients are more likely to follow through with a session if they don’t have much energy or motivation that day. And, follow through with therapy is directly connected to success rates.

“If in person therapy is a 10, online is an 8, but no therapy is a 0.”- redditor

Barriers to Online Therapy

While online medical support promises to grow rapidly over the next decade and has clear benefits, it still has some technical and practical problems for those seeking therapy. Of course, teletherapy is not for everybody. Every client will need a computer or smart phone and an internet connection. And, although you can utilize your phone connection for the video meeting, not everyone has the type of connection that makes for a clear conversation. Some people feel this creates a distance and communication issue that disrupts conversation and expression.

Not everyone has the insurance benefit for Telehealth. Even though finding out if you have this benefit is as easy as a phone call, it means some people may have coverage for in person sessions, but no coverage for online therapy. Another aspect is level of emotional suffering. Sometimes a person’s suffering is beyond what a 1-2 time a week therapy relationship can give. For these people the more intensive and in person therapy is more appropriate.

Find Peace Even if You Are Stuck at Home

It you are like the majority of people- waiting to hear when schools and offices will be closed, worrying about how the future will affect your family’s health, think about taking time to take care of yourself as well. See a therapist online.

~Seclusion Special~

See a licensed master’s level online therapist for $75/session!

Send me a message through https://www.whereyouarecounseling.com/ to set up therapy today.

*Written by Hollie O’Keefe LPC Founder and Lead Clinician of Where You Are Counseling LLC