Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy, also referred to as teletherapy, online therapy, e-therapy, e-counseling, or cyber-counseling, involves providing mental health services and support over the internet.
The virtual therapy that I offer occurs in real-time through a secure video platform.
Benefits of Virtual Therapy:
- Accessibility
- Convenience
- Privacy
- Comfort
Virtual therapy sessions are typically 50 minutes long. If required, longer sessions can be pre-arranged.
Cost: $200
Is Virtual Therapy Right for You?
Virtual therapy has been found to be just as effective as in-person. But before deciding, here are a few tips, and a few things to consider.
Tips for Preparing for a Virtual Therapy Session
- Find a quiet and separate space. Create a confidential space in a specific room in your house, car, or porch.
- Use headphones and a noise machine. These devices help create a confidential, noise-blocking spaces.
- Create a space that is comfortable. Therapy can bring up some intense emotions. It can help to sit in a cozy chair, wear comfortable clothing, and find other ways to make the space around you comfortable and relaxing. Find a spot with good lighting, preferably in front of you, so your therapist can see your face clearly.
- Make sure that you’re in a place with good Internet connection and close any other programs that you might have open. These things limit buffering. If possible, opt for a wired connection over Wi-Fi for better stability.
- Charge your device or keep it plugged in during the session to prevent battery drain. Download any required software or apps in advance, and if it’s your first time, do a trial run to familiarize yourself with the platform. To make therapy feel more personal, having a decent webcam, headset or speakers, and microphone can make it feel more personal.
- Minimize Distractions. Turn off or mute notifications on your devices to stay focused.
- Communicate to household members that you need private space for an hour. If there are reasons you can’t disclose that you go to therapy, remember that you get to choose where you conduct your therapy session.
Things to consider when deciding if virtual therapy is right for you.
- Comfort with Technology: Are you comfortable using devices, apps, and the Internet? Virtual therapy requires a basic level of tech literacy.
- Technology Setup: Do you have a reliable internet connection? Do you have a device with a camera and microphone, and potentially headphones for privacy?
- Privacy and Space: Do you have a private space where you can speak openly without interruptions or fear of being overheard?
- Severity of Symptoms: Are you currently in crisis? Virtual therapy can be effective for a range of issues, but if you’re experiencing severe mental health symptoms or crises, in-person care or immediate assistance from local services might be more appropriate.
- Access to Services: If in-person therapy is not accessible due to location, disability, or scheduling conflicts, virtual therapy can bridge that gap.
