Did you know that remote communication between therapists and clients has been around for quite some time? In fact, the father of psychoanalysis himself, Sigmund Freud, used to communicate with his clients through letters! And did you know that self-help groups first appeared on the web way back in 1982? Nowadays, we call this type of remote communication “Telemental Health” or “online therapy”. According to the State of Georgia Secretary of State, Telemental Health is defined as…
“…the mode of delivering services via technology-assisted media, such as but not limited to, a telephone, video, internet, a smartphone, tablet, PC desktop system or other electronic means using appropriate encryption technology for electronic health information. TeleMental Health facilitates client self-management and support for clients and includes synchronous interactions and asynchronous store and forward transfers.”
So what does that mean? Online therapy lets you connect with a therapist without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. Picture this: you can communicate with a licensed therapist through the internet using any device with an internet connection – whether it’s your trusty computer, handy tablet, or even your smartphone. It’s like having a personal therapist right at your fingertips!
What are the advantages of online therapy versus in-person therapy?
- Flexibility/Accessibility: people with disabilities, location, schedule or transportation issues benefit from therapy that does not require a trip to a physical location and waiting for an appointment to begin. No more worrying about travel time or the stress of waiting for an appointment to begin. Online therapy not only improves access but also reduces the burden of physical travel, making it easier for you to focus on your well-being.
- Communication: online therapy is a game-changer for those who struggle with communication, social anxiety, or have experienced trauma. It’s a safe haven where you can open up and share your deepest thoughts and feelings from the comfort of your own space. No more awkward silences or feeling judged by others. With online therapy, you can finally break free from the chains of anxiety and start living your best life.
- Convenience: did you know that almost 100% of clients in an American Psychology survey said that online therapy is more convenient and comfortable? It’s true! With online therapy, you can communicate with your therapist on your own schedule, without any interruptions. Imagine being able to message your therapist throughout the day and getting feedback right away, instead of waiting a whole week. It’s no wonder why so many people are turning to online therapy for their mental health needs.
- Confidentiality: unfortunately therapy and mental health issues still carry a lot of stigma in our society. It’s no wonder that some folks are hesitant to seek in-person therapy, fearing they might bump into someone they know and have to explain themselves. Online therapy solves this problem. With online therapy, you can get the help you need without worrying about running into anyone you know. It’s a discreet and convenient way to take care of your mental health.
- Lower cost: not only is online therapy more convenient, but it also doesn’t come with the same overhead costs as in-person therapy. And guess what? These savings are often passed on to you in the form of reduced session rates.
- Improved Quality : online therapy has been proven time and time again to be the ultimate game-changer. Studies have shown that it delivers a superior product, with outstanding outcomes and client satisfaction. So, if you’re looking for a therapy experience that will leave you feeling fulfilled and empowered, look no further than online therapy.
Does online therapy work?
According to a recent study by Verywell Mind, a whopping 91% of people currently in online therapy agree that more people should give it a try. And guess what? Research shows that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is just as effective when delivered online as it is in-person. Not only does online therapy eliminate traditional barriers to therapy, but it can also effectively reduce symptoms of depression and other mental health issues. In fact, in some cases, online CBT has been found to be even more effective than in-person therapy.
Is my session private?
I offer online therapy sessions through a trusted Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant platform. With just a few clicks, you can access your private client portal from any device with a camera and microphone – even on-the-go with our handy phone application. Once you’re ready to start your session, simply click on the secure URL link I’ll send you beforehand and voila! You’ll be whisked away to your very own virtual therapy room. I’ll be there waiting for you at the scheduled time, ready to help you on your journey towards healing and growth.
Will my sessions be recorded?
Your privacy is my top priority. None of your appointments will ever be recorded or stored in any way.
Do I need special equipment?
To join in on our online therapy sessions, all you need is one of these devices:
- Desktop computer with a webcam, speakers, a 2.5 GHz processor, and 4 GB of RAM OR
- Laptop computer with built-in webcam and speakers, a 2.5 GHz processor, and 4 GB of RAM OR
- Tablet device with built-in webcam and speakers, OR
- Smartphone with at least iOS 10 or Android 6.0
- (Note: To use a smartphone, you must first download Telehealth by SimplePractice – available for iOS or Android in the app store.)
- You will also need an internet connection that is at least 10mbps. For optimal results, a reliable, high-speed internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 mbps will minimize connection issues and provide the best quality.