There are countless advantages to online therapy…
Here’s one of the major advantages: privacy. Many people don’t want to be seen or heard receiving services. Your privacy will be secure because we’ll use a HIPAA-compliant platform (which means your confidential information will be safe in an online world).
Teletherapy is also convenient! You don’t have to drive to an office, which saves you time and money. People enjoy being able to do therapy without taking time off from work. It’s so flexible that they can even use their lunch breaks to have a therapy session. You have the convenience of meeting wherever you feel comfortable.
Plus, teletherapy is accessible. Do you travel a lot within the State or work on the North Slope? If you do, then you still have access to therapy! Do you live in a rural area with little to no therapy services available? Well, now you have access that you didn’t have before.
“But is online therapy effective?”
Would you believe teletherapy services began 60 years ago?! So, there have been decades of research on its effectiveness…
And it is just as effective as in-person therapy.
The two biggest predictors of successful outcomes in therapy are an agreement on goals between client and therapist and the relationship and connection between the client and therapist. According to the American Medical Association, when telehealth is done correctly, it can strengthen the patient-provider relationship and better engage patients with their care – thus improving outcomes.
Over and over, telehealth effectively treats a wide range of populations and issues, including individuals, couples, families, and groups for issues such as anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and addictions.
You will have the same opportunity to build the connection and relationship that is typical of in-person therapy.
There are definitely situations in which teletherapy is inappropriate, but I screen for this during our initial phone consultation. If it becomes apparent that in-person services are needed during therapy, I can refer you to a good therapy office.
I’ve received special training in providing teletherapy services…
So, I know that there is a wrong way and a right way to providing therapy at a distance.
Technology is a wonderful tool and resource, but we also know that sometimes there are technical difficulties. I have the technical skills and knowledge to help clients navigate the systems I have and troubleshoot issues. I did careful research in selecting a user-friendly platform to meet my clients’ needs best. I also have backup systems and plans in place should a technical difficulty arise. I explain to clients what to expect should a technical difficulty arise during a session.
Eye contact is an essential component to feel connected with another person. I know how to set up and position the computer to maximize eye contact to create that sense of connection.
Getting started (and doing it!) is so easy!
All you need is an email address. You’ll receive a secure link to the client portal to fill out your paperwork; it’s completely paperless. You don’t even need a “login” or “password,” as you’ll receive a unique link to access the client portal each time you need to log in. The intake paperwork, the appointments, the payments… you can manage it all conveniently through my secure platform.
All you need is a device with good Internet access, a camera, microphone, and speakers to participate in online therapy sessions. You can use a laptop, but you can also use a tablet or phone if you don’t have a laptop or computer. Step-by-step instructions will be provided, and I will provide help if you run into any problems.
You need your own private space for your sessions, so you don’t have interruptions. This is your time. In addition, driving during therapy sessions is not allowed, but pajamas are as long as they are full coverage!
Your journey awaits.
Rest assured that you will be greeted with the same support and connection on the other side of your screen.
Call me today for your free 15-minute consultation: (907) 691-4528.
We will determine if we’re a good fit, and I’ll answer questions you have.