What is teletherapy?

Teletherapy is mental health counseling that uses technology to help the therapist and client communicate. As videoconferencing software improves, more people are looking for "online therapists" or "E-therapy" through the Internet as a form of virtual mental health support. Teletherapy can be convenient for both the client and the therapist. As your therapist, it is important to me to protect your confidentiality. I use only HIPAA compliant platforms to ensure your safety and privacy.

I have always believed that the safety, trust, and comfort in our relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. Teletherapy is no exception. It is just a little harder to see nuances of facial expressions online but when we are partners in this process, we can work together to compensate for any inconvenience.

Teletherapy has proven to be equally as effective as in-person therapy. What may be lost in subtle body language is offset by the intensity of having each other’s entire focus and undivided attention. While I had done a few teletherapy sessions for clients who were traveling or on sabbatical, it was not until COVID-19 that I had the opportunity to take my entire practice online.

Connecting with clients on a HIPAA-compliant video platform (see our FAQ section) has proven to be easy for clients to navigate. The focus then becomes the same good therapy for individuals and couples that I have historically provided in the privacy of my office.

I invite clients to prepare for teletherapy by finding a comfortable private space (possibly even their car), water, and a box of tissues just in case. It is best to sit in this space a few minutes before the session to gather thoughts and intentions for the session, just as one might do while commuting to my private office, or perhaps while sitting quietly in the private waiting area outside. I also suggest they take a few minutes after the session before leaving the space to think about the session and possibly even journal a few thoughts.

We are in unchartered water these days, and teletherapy may feel foreign and uncertain just like the rest of this pandemic. Initially, it did to me too, but I have come to see how valuable and helpful it can be. I’m happy to work with you in whatever manner meets your situation, whether online or in the privacy of my office when safety allows.

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
• 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