Questions About Online Therapy: Answered
I get a lot of questions about online counseling. Is it effective? How does it work? Is it private? I have attempted to answer some of the most common questions here. If I missed something, let me know! This is intended to provide general information. Each therapist may be a a little different. I have explained, in detail, what clients can expect from online therapy in my practice on my online therapy page.
How does it work?
When you schedule your online counseling appointment, you will receive an email with a link to click on when it is time for your appointment. You can meet with your counselor from wherever you are- your home, your car, sitting outside, or traveling. Some counselors will email you your paperwork and request you print, fill out, and return it before your first session. Others (including my practice) will email you the paperwork in a format that allows you to fill it all out online and return it. No printing or scanning required.
Is it effective?
Studies have shown that online counseling can be as effective as in-person counseling. You can read one 2018 study here. The option for online counseling has also allowed people to engage in therapy that might otherwise not have been able to due to time restrictions, childcare needs, or not have access to a counselor. It is encouraging to know that online counseling is effective and it is also accessible to people no matter where you are. In my practice, I see clients throughout Colorado- including Woodland Park, Colorado Springs, Buena Vista, Breckenridge, Leadville, Telluride, and Durango.
What if I'm out of town?
You can still have your counseling session! You can see your therapist from anywhere. Even if you are travelling out of state. As long as you are a resident of the state your therapist is licensed in, you can see them from wherever you may be travelling.
Is Online Therapy private?
In short, yes. Most online therapy platforms are HIPPA compliant, which means they have to meet certain privacy and security standards. If you are unsure about what is used with your counselor, just ask them. I encourage my clients to try and find a semi-quiet or private space for them when we meet. This is so you can have limited distractions and get the best out of your time. However, I know that life happens and we will always work with whatever is going on. Your counselor should also be in a private space when meeting with you. This may be from their office, home office, or another private space. Counselors are committed to protecting your privacy.
Does insurance cover Teletherapy?
Most of the time, yes. Online counseling is not new and insurance companies have been moving towards covering the service. With the recent COVID pandemic, nearly all insurance companies are covering online counseling. Personally, I don't see this changing, but if it does your clinician and/or insurance company will let you know.
What if I'm not good with technology?
Online therapy is designed to be simple. Your appointment is scheduled with your counselor. You get an email. You click the link at your appointment time. You're connected! There are some minor differences depending on what platform your counselor uses and how they chose to do their paperwork, but the process should be simple and they will walk you through it. There is always the potential for connection issues, but if that happens your counselor should promptly call you and troubleshoot what is happening and adapt to meet the needs of the situation.
Are there any specific issues that are not good for online therapy?
This really depends on your therapist and what they specialize in and are comfortable with. In my experience and opinion, it really depends more on the individual and less on the issue or condition. A few issues that may not be best for online therapy are suicidal intent (more than thoughts of harm- there is a plan and concern of carrying it out) and active psychosis. A clinician should screen ahead of time to make sure you are a good candidate for online therapy. Younger children may benefit more from in-person because their sessions are often more interactive with play, drawing, etc. Teens seem to benefit more from online therapy because they are very use to engaging with others online. For adults, it really depends on your preference. Online therapy can be very effective for issues such as anxiety or chronic stress, depression, perinatal mood concerns (postpartum depression or anxiety, sleep issues, overwhelm), parenting and co-parenting, life transitions, marriage or couples, and even trauma. If you are not sure if online therapy is a good option for you, I would be happy to discuss it! I provide a free consultation to Colorado residents to help make sure you get what you need.
If you feel that your relationship tendencies or patterns, chronic stress, anxiety, or mood concerns are getting in the way of quality relationships with your partner, children, or friends, there are options for change. Counseling may be a good way to address barriers, develop skills, and fully engage with the people you love. Through individual and couples counseling, I provide a specialized and modern approach to treatment in Woodland Park, Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs, and online therapy throughout Colorado.
