FAQ ABOUT VIRTUAL THERAPY
WHAT IS VIRTUAL THERAPY?
Online therapy, also known as e-therapy, e-counseling, tele-therapy, virtual therapy or cyber-counseling provides psychological advice and support over the internet. Recently, there have been studies which have shown the effectiveness of online counseling. It has been shown to be just as effective as office-based counseling, which is what most people use. However, not everyone has access to a licensed professional counselor where they live. Some people live in places where very few mental health professionals exist, while others just like the convenience of sessions from the comfort of their own home.
I utilize a telehealth platform that is easily accessed through a personalized and private client portal that is also HIPAA compliant.
BENEFITS OF VIRTUAL THERAPY?
- Accessibility to individuals who are disabled or housebound.
- Convenience as you can attend therapy sessions online in the comfort of your own home, you can often schedule your therapy sessions for times that are the most convenient for you.Â
- Flexibility in scheduling
- 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
WHEN SHOULD I SEEK TRADITIONAL MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT RATHER THAN INTERNET THERAPY?​​
1. If you are in an abusive or violent relationship.
2. If you have been seriously depressed.
3. If you have serious substance abuse dependence.
4. If you are a minor (under 18 years old) and your parent is not present during all sessions.
5. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself (e.g. suicidal thoughts), someone is harming you (e.g. abuse), harming someone else (e.g. violent thoughts toward others) or psychotic symptoms either proceeded immediately to your nearest emergency room, call 911. You can also utilize 24-hour crisis hotlines to speak with trained counselors at:​
National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE​
Crisis Link: 800-273-TALK or 703-527-4077
Text to 741-741 ​
**********I do not have the ability to provide 24-hr emergency contact. If you believe that your situation will require a therapist that has a 24-hr support, please discuss this with me as soon as possible. **********