At Threshold Counseling and Coaching, our top priority is to ensure our clients have access to consistent quality mental health care. We recognize that life happens, often presenting us with challenges–work, childcare, traffic, or even a pandemic–that make it difficult to physically come into the office. We don’t want everyday hindrances or accessibility issues to prevent you from getting the care you need, which is why we offer teletherapy appointments.
We know that trying teletherapy may be a big adjustment for some. Please see the answers to some common questions and concerns below in order to help you decide if teletherapy might be a good choice for you:
What is teletherapy?
Teletherapy is therapy provided through a live video connection, over the internet. You will be provided with the same treatment as you would receive in person, it’s just done through a computer! During the therapy sessions, the client and therapist can see, hear, and interact with one another in real time, using webcams, microphones or headsets, in a live, synchronous online environment. If you’ve ever used Zoom on your computer or FaceTime on your iPhone, you’ve used the same type of technology teletherapy uses.
Is it really as good as face-to-face therapy?
Luckily, there has been a good amount of research on telehealth and teletherapy as it continues to grow as a clinical service delivery model. Research has found very few differences between telehealth and traditional in-person therapy!
It is recommended that a therapeutic relationship between client and counselor has already been established prior to engaging in teletherapy. That is why we encourage a few face-to-face sessions prior to taking this teletherapy option.
What are the benefits of teletherapy?
Yet, the most significant benefit of teletherapy specifically is CONVIENCE! Engaging in sessions online means that you can work with your counselor from anywhere–your house, office, or even your car!
There are many benefits to teletherapy, most of which are the benefits received from engaging in consistent counseling work:
- improved communication and interpersonal skills
- greater self-acceptance and self-esteem
- ability to change self-defeating behaviors/habits
- better expression and management of emotions, including anger
- relief from depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
- increased confidence and decision-making skills
- ability to manage stress effectively
- improved problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities
Our lives are busy. Teletherapy is a tool that you can use to help you take care of you by consistently accessing the support you need to reach your goals.
Are there any risks?
One of the things that face-to-face counseling sessions can offer that teletherapy cannot is a private, serene space with which to work with your therapist. With teletherapy, it is up to you to find a private space where you won’t be overheard or interrupted.
Another consideration in regard to privacy is internet connection. When you engage in teletherapy, you’ll be logging into a secure, HIPPA compliant platform. Yet, the internet you reach that platform may not be secure. We recommend using your personal home or encrypted workplace wifi instead of public internet options.
How do I get into my teletherapy session?
Once you schedule your teletherapy session, your therapist will send you a link and a meeting password to your email. All you’ll need to do is click that link, put in the password, and it will take you into a secure, password protected ZOOM meeting where your therapist will be waiting. Easy!
I have more questions or would like to schedule a teletherapy session. What should I do?
Reach out to your therapist via email thresholdcounselingandcoaching@gmail.com or by calling or texting (720) 447-3075.