What is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy is a rapidly growing and trending method of meeting with clients nationwide. Teletherapy, also known as telehealth, and telecounseling is a means of providing therapy through a live video connection, over the internet. The same treatment is provided to you as you would receive in person, it’s just done through a computer, tablet, or a smart phone!
I find using teletherapy that both myself and the individuals I work with probably project more authentic versions of ourselves from the comfort of our own homes. The thing I place the most emphasis on—the integrity of the therapeutic relationship—is not diluted in any way because we are connecting through a screen. In fact, people often tell me that their online experience has been more satisfying than their previous in-person therapy.
Other beneficial aspects of virtual therapy include:
- Flexibility in scheduling
- Convenience, which seems to result in fewer cancellations than in face-to-face settings
- Saving time from commuting to and from appointments
- Generally less expensive than traditional therapy
- Eliminates fears of running into known others in waiting area of therapy office
- Potentially feeling more comfortable in a familiar setting, enhancing vulnerability and disclosure
So if you’ve ever used Skype on your computer or FaceTime on your iPhone, you’ve used the same type of technology Teletherapy uses. Only your sessions are conducted over a HIPAA compliant connection in the comfort and privacy of your own home or office. No more fighting traffic or taking time to travel distances for private sessions.
I would be happy to offer additional information about Teletherapy upon request.