Research suggests that teletherapy is just as effective for most clients as traditional therapy. While it isn't the right fit for every client, there are certainly benefits for some--including convenience, saved travel time and expense, accessibility, comfort and safety in your home or preferred space, continued service despite weather concerns or sickness, and, currently, lowered risk of exposure to the coronavirus. While there are limitations which include some people's preference for in-person interaction, risk of technological or connectivity issues, and limited range of activities for some populations such as children, teletherapy can be a valuable resource and one I'm glad to be able to offer.

Additionally, the primary risk of teletherapy involves confidentiality. While I am able to control the environment in order to protect your confidentiality in my office, confidentiality rests at least partially in your hands when services are provided via teletherapy. While I will always guarantee confidentiality to the best of my ability from our end and through secure and HIPAA-compliant services, online services incur an inherent risk of being hacked due to online connectivity. Additionally, I ask that you do your best to ensure your own privacy on your end--choose a quiet and private location to conduct your sessions where you will be free to speak without risk of being overheard.

We will meet virtually via an online HIPAA-compliant software. Since we already use the Client Portal via Simple Practice for client communications and for your intake paperwork (there is more information about the client portal under Common Questions), we will also use their Telehealth platform for teletherapy. Sessions will be conducted via video when possible and via audio if connectivity becomes an issue. Sessions will last 50 minutes (as does a traditional session with us) unless otherwise arranged.

During sessions, we will chat just as we would in my office. We may also occasionally share videos, our screen, or other resources via the online platform in order to enhance the therapy session and provide better treatment. Other than the difference in video rather than an in-person visit, the sessions are very similar to traditional therapy sessions. (Child sessions may require a bit more planning with parents due to lack of play therapy equipment availability.)

You will need either a laptop, tablet, or cell phone which has video and audio capability and internet connectivity which can maintain the connection required for video sessions. Headphones with a microphone are suggested by not required; they can provide additional privacy and occasionally make hearing easier as well.

Simple Practice does not require a special app if you are using a laptop. You will be sent an email with a link which will allow you to access the video session. However, if you are using a tablet or cell phone for you sessions, it is recommended to download the Telehealth by Simple Practice app. Specific instructions will be sent via email when you schedule your first session.

Make sure you are in a quiet, private location where you will not be overheard and will not be disturbed. Let others in your home know that you will be participating in a session and will not be available for the duration of the session. If you will be using headphones, ensure you have them available. Ensure that your device is charged and connected to the internet. Make sure you are comfortable and have everything you may want to have handy during your session (such as water, a blanket or sweater, etc.).

In case of technical difficulties, we will each attempt to reconnect. However, we will ensure we have your phone number and you have ours so that if reconnection fails, we can continue via phone or move to an alternate platform which we have available in case of technical difficulties.