If convenience and comfort matter to you, then online therapy may be just what you need.
Imagine…
Scheduling an appointment with a few clicks rather than back and forth emails or calls.
No driving across town…in rush hour traffic…in the summer heat.
No waiting in an office lobby.
Getting into your comfy clothes, filling a glass of your favorite tea or other therapy-appropriate beverage, and curling up in your favorite spot at home.
Using your desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or smart phone to easily connect to live, confidential video sessions with your therapist.
What is Online Therapy?
In the mental health field, online therapy goes by many names – tele-health, tele-practice, tele-mental health, and online counseling. The bottom line is that online therapy is a service delivery method whereby therapy or counseling services are delivered over secure video sessions or over the phone, depending on state laws.
Online therapy is the modern day solution for busy people who don’t have two or more hours to spend for a one-hour session. It’s the perfect solution for busy students, stay-at-home parents, working professionals, and entrepreneurs looking for support that fits into their lifestyle.
Is online therapy private? How does it work?
Federal laws require that online therapy sessions maintain privacy guidelines outlined by HIPAA. In other words, the same laws that apply to in-person counseling also apply to online counseling.
To maintain your own privacy as a client, here are some recommendations to follow:
- Ensure that you are in a private location where others cannot hear you.
- If others are around, ask them not to interrupt you. You may also ask that they stay in another area, turn on entertainment in another room, and/or listen to something over headphones.
When Online Therapy May Not Be Appropriate
Despite the benefits of utilizing online therapy, there are certain situations when it may not be appropriate. These include:
- Complex mental health diagnoses (i.e., visual and/or auditory hallucinations, active substance use, recent suicidal or homicidal thoughts)
- Those under age 18
- Those with poor internet connection
- Those with a lack of privacy
How Tech Savvy Do I Need to Be?
If you can click on links and complete online forms, you’re good to go!
Arizona Women’s Counseling uses a HIPAA compliant platform to conduct video sessions, Simple Practice. When you become a client, you will have access to a secure, online client portal where you can electronically sign intake forms, schedule appointments, enter your credit or debit card for payment, and contact your therapist through secure messaging.
You can participate in video sessions via your computer (desktop or laptop), tablet, or smart phone (i0S and Android). Typically, any device you can do a video chat and stream videos on will work for online therapy.
Want to learn more about online therapy in the Phoenix, AZ metro area and throughout Arizona? Book a free 15-minute consult by clicking the BOOK FREE CONSULT button.