Teletherapy FAQ
As people are physically distancing (critically distinct from the more commonly used term “socially distancing”) themselves from others, including their therapists, and experiencing rampant anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, teletherapy (online therapy) has emerged as a vital resource. Here at Premier Psychology Group, we conduct all therapy via a secure video platform. Below, we tackle some frequently asked questions about the process:
What is teletherapy?!
Teletherapy (AKA telepsychology, online therapy, virtual therapy) refers to the remote provision of psychological services using telecommunications technologies such as videoconferencing and telephone. Simply put, online therapy involves a therapist and client meeting remotely via telephone or a video-based service.
Why is teletherapy important?
Online therapy can be immensely helpful in reducing barriers to treatment, ranging from geographic barriers (e.g., when someone lives in an area lacking mental health resources) to health barriers (e.g., if someone is sick or in the case of a public health crisis). Teletherapy is a vital mode of service delivery during the current COVID-19 pandemic, not only because continuity in therapy is crucial, but also because of rampant health-related anxiety. In a time when people are creating physical distance from others (which tends to cause social distance and loneliness), initiating or maintaining a meaningful connection with a therapist can be incredibly beneficial.
Does talking to a therapist online remotely feel normal?
While some may argue that certain elements of therapy (e.g., perception of body language, nonverbal expressions of empathy) are lost in online therapy, we have witnessed that modern technology enables remote therapy to feel remarkably similar to in-person therapy. Anecdotally, many clients have said that phone- and video-based therapy sessions closely approximate our in-person sessions. We recommend that clients identify a private place where they will not be interrupted or overheard.
What are some downsides to teletherapy?
When seeking online therapy, it is important to note a few limitations: (1) not all insurers will cover or reimburse for teletherapy, so clients should check with their insurer prior to initiating treatment; (2) even if an insurer covers or reimburses for teletherapy, they may only cover video-based (rather than phone-based) services; (3) in order to provide teletherapy, a therapist must be licensed in the state where the client currently resides, which ensures therapists are appropriately versed in relevant mental health laws; and (4) only some platforms are designed to maintain patient privacy (i.e., “HIPAA-compliant”). Regarding the last caveat, make sure to check whether the service your therapist is utilizing is HIPAA-compliant (read: no FaceTime or Snapchat therapy!).
Do you believe in texting-based therapy (e.g., Talkspace)?
The success of psychotherapy heavily relies on the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. The importance of the therapeutic relationship makes it difficult to believe that texting-based counseling services (in which the counselor and client never hear or see each other) are as effective as other forms of counseling. There have also been numerous articles written about privacy concerns for users as well as therapist exploitation at text-based therapy companies.
How do I find a therapist who offers teletherapy?
Psychology Today is the largest and most widely used directory of mental health clinicians. When searching on Psychology Today for a therapist, individuals may indicate their preference for online and phone-based counseling. Additionally, there is a new feature on therapists’ profiles on Psychology Today where they can explain how they are amending their services in light of COVID-19. Therapists typically charge the same fee for in-person and online counseling.
