FYI- Many insurance companies are waiving copayments for their clients who would like to receive online counseling at this time. Please connect with your mental health insurance provider to see if you are eligible.

Have you ever spoken to a friend on FaceTime?  Participated in a Zoom meeting for work?  Chances are you have virtually connected with someone via video at some point.  The world is becoming more virtual as technology improves and many have smartphones that allow you to reach out to someone quite easily. 

Now that much of the nation is practicing social distancing or are in places that many non-essential services are shut down due to COVID-19, we are staying home to flatten the curve and protect those who are more vulnerable to the virus.  In the past, this could mean weeks of skipped therapy or inability to access help when we all need it the most. Online therapy can provide treatment while also addressing the anxieties, stressors, and fears this pandemic has caused.

Recent research reflects that online therapy can be just as effective and sometimes, more convenient in our busy lives.  Also, virtual therapy can feel more comfortable for some as it is conducted while you are in your own environment.  As with traditional therapy, you receive the same treatment and can discuss what you need to with your therapist as if you were face to face. 

Let’s talk about the benefits of online therapy

1 It doesn’t just have to be on video

If you aren’t comfortable with video, online therapy offers other methods.  Some therapists offer text-based therapy and allow you to contact them throughout the week.  This can be especially useful for those with social anxiety, panic and agoraphobia.  Second, there is audio therapy – in this method, you and your therapist will meet on Zoom or the telephone. 

2 No commute

Commuting for therapy appointments can be cumbersome.  Add the costs associated (transportation, parking, childcare and missing work for appointments) it can become a financial and scheduling burden. Many people don’t begin therapy or stop going because of the difficulties in traveling to their therapist.  Online therapy removes these hindrances and makes it easier to find a time that is convenient for yourself and your therapist.

3 Great if you are uniquely abled

If you have accessibility issues or physical limitations including being housebound, online therapy is an excellent choice for you. 

4 Still covered by insurance

Many insurances cover online therapy sessions, however, it always good to contact your healthcare insurance to see if they are covered under your policy.

5 As always, it is confidential

As with your visits to your therapist are private and confidential, so are your online visits!  Online therapy is completely confidential and the same rules that apply offline are still applied online.  The therapy itself can sometimes cause stigma around mental health; online therapy reduces this.  That way you are more comfortable with the sessions and your communication during them. 

Also, communication online is encrypted through an HIPAA compliant platform called VSee. VSee is free for the you and can be downloaded onto your phone or computer.

6 Your therapist must be licensed in the state you live in

Some may be licensed in more than one state.  So, you know you are getting quality healthcare by a reputable and credited provider to meet your mental health needs.  This also means they are aware and comply with all Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), ethic and legal practices. 

7 You can have access to a specialist that you cannot find locally

You may want a certain type of therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy or other evidence-based treatment. Oftentimes, therapists formally trained and specialized in these modalities for panic, anxiety, and other diagnoses are much easier accessed virtually. You may more likely to find a suitable and qualified therapist if you go beyond the location you would stay in to visit a therapist in an office. 

Online therapy isn’t the best choice for everyone, and some mental health disorders may be better treated in person.  Clients who are actively at risk of harm to self or others are not suitable for teletherapy services. If you are feeling suicidal, it is better to be seen in person. That said, during the quarantine many therapists are allowing for online sessions regardless.  

Many of my clients are finding that treatment for their anxiety and worry during this time of uncertainty has been surprisingly easy, and it is a great way for your counselor to see where you live, meet your pets and maybe even family members. If you’re interested in learning more- please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Here’s to all of us taking great care of ourselves, and making it through to the other side stronger and thriving!