By: Jessica Taylor, LPC
The danger of contracting COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of our lives; and the treatment of mental health is no expectation. Although therapy is considered an “essential service,” most therapists have chosen to conduct sessions online, and offer what is referred to as teletherapy, in order to protect their clients and themselves from the virus. Attending therapy can already be an anxiety-provoking experience, so you may be feeling hesitant to add something new on top of that. Because of this, I am going to answer some common questions about teletherapy.
What Happens During a Teletherapy Session?
As a therapist, even I was concerned about what teletherapy would be like. There is something so powerful about therapist and client coming together, in the same room, working to uncover and heal. I was worried that this would be completely lost while doing teletherapy sessions. Luckily, I quickly noticed that not only are teletherapy sessions a lot less awkward than I originally assumed, but my clients are generally able to show vulnerability and practice solution-focused strategies just as we would if we were meeting in the office. Almost a decade of research shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy.
Often times, your therapist will send you a link, which you will simply click on at the time of your appointment in order to gain access to the teletherapy session. Just like during an in-person session, your therapist will assess your mood and functioning since the last session, as well as pick up any important points you left off on during the last conversation you had together. If this is your first session, or intake appointment, with your therapist you will discuss what is bringing you to therapy. Your therapist will ask background questions and answer any of your questions about the process, as needed.
Is It Going to Be More Difficult for My Therapist to Diagnose and Treat Me When Doing Teletherapy?
If you trust your therapist and are willing to be open and honest during your therapy sessions, your therapist should have no trouble diagnosing any mental health issues that are present. In addition, you and your therapist will continue working on your treatment plan goals just as you would if you were doing in-person sessions.
What Are the Positive Aspects of Teletherapy?
Convenience
Instead of having to schedule in drive time when planning for your session, you can make the appointment for whenever you will have access to a phone or computer.
You are in a familiar space
Sometimes, it takes a while to get comfortable enough to show vulnerability when we are in a therapist’s office. But if you are engaging in a teletherapy session in your own home, you might feel comfortable opening up rather quickly. It can also be helpful for a therapist to see how you behave in your own space.
You don’t have to travel (or fight traffic) to get to your therapist’s office.
It may b easier to find an appointment time.
You can see any therapist in your state, instead of ones in your town or city.
What Are the Negative Aspects of Teletherapy?
- Possible issues with privacy
If you live with other people, it can sometimes be difficult to find a moment alone (these days especially!). To deal with this, sometimes my clients will go sit in their car during sessions or make sure that they schedule for a time that they know they will be alone. You do not need to worry about your therapist having privacy. They are required by HIPAA to find a space to conduct the session where no one else will be able hear what you are saying.
- Technology Issues
The most frustrating part of teletherapy is possible technology issues. To try to minimize this, make sure that you have a good internet connection prior to the start of your session. Your therapist will do the same. Of course, some connectivity issues are inevitable when dealing with technology, because of this, go into the session with a flexible attitude, and know that your therapist is going to do everything in their power to make sure that your session feels as ‘normal’ as possible.
How Do I Decide if Teletherapy is Right for Me?
Give it a shot! And if you decide that teletherapy sessions just don’t feel right, ask your therapist if engaging instead over the phone would be appropriate. Be honest with your therapist if dealing with technology and mental health issues at the same time feels overwhelming. Ultimately, your therapist wants what is best for you and your treatment, which means that they are going to be as flexible and creative as possible during this unique time.