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Teletherapy- What is it?
Teletherapy, or online therapy, is the delivery of mental health therapy online. This could include video conferencing (video chat), mobile phones, and even written messaging. It's also known as virtual therapy, remote therapy, or online counseling.
As a therapist with over 20 years of experience in in-person therapy, it was difficult to imagine how effective therapy would be online. Wasn't it impersonal? How do I read people's body language? How will they get to know me? How will I be able to assess their needs? Will my humor translate? (haha). But for the past few years due to the pandemic, many of us made the transition so we could continue to support our clients. And you know what I found? I absolutely love it! And, more importantly, so do my clients!
The research is out! Teletherapy has proven to be as effective as in-person therapy and has even shown to have the following five additional advantages:
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1. Being seen in the comfort of your own home. Clients love that therapy can come to them! They can sit in their favorite spot with their comfy clothes. They can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and hang with their beloved pets! Therapists love it when we get to see our clients with their pets!
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2. No waiting rooms! It literally takes seconds to connect by video chat or phone and you are ready to go! No worrying that you might run into someone you know or be stuck sitting next to people (which can be especially difficult for people who have social anxiety or depression).
3. No spending money on expensive gas! Yes, this is a very real thing these days!
4. It saves lots of time (no travel time or waiting rooms)!
5. It's great having the option to do therapy through your mobile device during your lunch hour or if you can't find time during the day to drive all the way to the therapist's office.
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When Teletherapy is a good choice:
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Online therapy (teletherapy), is effective for people who have mild to moderate depression, anxiety, or sleep issues. It's also great for clients who are struggling with issues related to self-esteem, work/career, stress, motivation, relationships, life transitions, and finding meaning and purpose in life. You must have a good internet connection for video chats to work. If you don't, we can also do therapy by phone. If you are someone who would appreciate the five advantages above and who has mild to moderate life challenges, then teletherapy may be a great fit for you!
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When Teletherapy is NOT a good choice:
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It's important to note that teletherapy is not for everyone. If you struggle with serious suicidal ideation or self-injurious behaviors, this might not be the modality for you. It may be better for you to call 911 or the National Suicide Hotline number at 1-800-273-8255 if there is an emergency. If you have a serious mental health condition, in-person therapy is definitely going to be a more appropriate level of care to provide the necessary support.