I have a confession to make: it took years for me to get on board with tele-therapy (or distance counseling, video therapy, online therapy, e-therapy). I ignored the fast-growing technological developments and insisted that in-person therapy was the only and best way to conduct therapy and receive support. Over time, however, I was unable to serve people who wanted therapy but could not access it. This has made me change my mind, as I want mental health care to be as accessible as possible.

What Is Tele-Therapy and Might it be Right for Me?

Essentially, tele-therapy is therapy that is conducted through a two-way audio/video internet connection, similar to Skype or FaceTime except that online therapy software used for tele-therapy has privacy safeguards.

Tele-therapy is very similar to in-person therapy in many ways and my approach to working with clients is essentially the same, except that sessions will be done over video. Of course, we will not be in the same room together, which changes the interpersonal dynamic. Some clients might find it easier to be open this way; others may find it more difficult. I strongly encourage clients who use tele-therapy to come to their first appointment in person and to come in person at least a couple of times during the duration of therapy; however, this is not possible for all clients. Please note that I do not believe tele-therapy is a good option for people who are in crisis. In these situations, I recommend seeking a therapist who lives close to where you live.

People work with online therapists for many reasons. For example, people who are isolated, geographically or emotionally, may need to access therapists who otherwise would not be available to them. Some people have time or mobility challenges. Some people simply prefer the distance of electronic communication to a face-to-face setting.

Tele-therapy can be as beneficial as traditional therapy. Although it is a relatively new therapy service, it is convenient, easily accessible, and cost- and time-effective, too.

Some things you should know if you would like to consider tele-therapy:

  1. We can do a free phone consultation to see if this avenue is right for you. To inquire about setting up an appointment, call me at 720-491-1533. Afterwards, I can help you schedule your session and will send you a secure link to the platform. The first session we have together should be in person, if possible; although I know that this may not always be the case.
  2. Prior to your session, you will be required to review and sign all informed consent documents, and to send me your contact information, emergency contact information, and a local crisis center in your area to ensure you have proper care in case of emergency. 
  3. Please ensure you have a secure and reliable WIFI or internet connection. You will also need to ensure, ahead of time, that you have a working webcam and audio on your device.  
  4. Just be mindful that visual cues and tone of voice, which we rely on in person, may be a little different over computer screens. Let’s just ask each other if something is unclear so we can avoid misunderstandings.
  5. I do not work directly with insurance companies but I am happy to provide you with documentation of paid services that you can submit as out-of-network services to your insurance company. Not all insurance companies will pay for tele-therapy. If you are intending to use insurance, it is best to check with your insurance company first to make sure they will cover it. 
  6. In the case of a mental health emergency, you agree to go to the nearest emergency department.
  7. Find a quiet place that will make it easier to hear each other, as well as stay focused. This may mean silencing your phone or simply locating a room in your home/building with the least amount of noise and the most amount of privacy.
  8. Don’t forget to ensure that your computer or phone is charged or plugged into a power source—otherwise, you may experience an abrupt end to your session!

Are you read to take the next step and explore the possibility of tele-therapy?

Are you interested in discussing tele-therapy? Give me a call at 720-491-1533 or email me at healchangegrow@gmail.com and we can explore whether or not it’s a good fit for you.