Teletherapy FAQ

Telehealth (“telemedicine,” “teletherapy,” or “telemental health”) is the practice of delivering clinical health care services via technology-assisted media or other electronic means between a practitioner and a client who are located in two different locations.

Pets are always welcome in telehealth sessions!

You can connect to telehealth sessions from your smartphone or computer. Headphones or earbuds are recommended.

There are unique risks, benefits, and expectations for telehealth services.

What are the risks of teletherapy vs. in-person therapy?

• Privacy and Confidentiality. You will be asked to share personal information with the telehealth platform to create an account, such as your name, date of birth, location, and contact information. You will also need to verify your identity with a photo ID. Your therapist carefully vets any telehealth platform to ensure your information is secured to the appropriate standards, though no telehealth platform is entirely without risk.
• Technology. At times, you could have problems with your internet, video, or sound. If you have issues during a video session, your therapist will attempt to conduct the session through a phone call.
• Crisis Management. It may be difficult for your therapist to provide immediate support during an emergency or crisis. You and your therapist will develop a plan for emergencies or crises, such as choosing a local emergency contact, creating a communication plan, and making a list of local support, emergency, and crisis services.

What are the benefits of teletherapy vs. in-person therapy?

• Flexibility. You can attend therapy wherever is convenient for you, so long as it is private and you can give your undivided attention.
• Ease of Access. You can attend telehealth sessions without worrying about traveling, meaning you can schedule less time per session and can attend therapy during inclement weather or illness.
• Lower cost. You don’t have the added costs of transportation, time off work, and childcare that you might for in-person appointments. You are more likely to be able to keep scheduled appointments and not be charged cancellation/no-show fees.
• Consistency. Telehealth makes it easier for both clients and therapists to balance their work and personal lives. This allows therapists to see clients more efficiently so you can receive care more consistently.
• Efficiency. Paperwork, therapeutic homework, and record transfers can be done electronically and take up less face-to-face time. This can help you stay on track and accomplish your goals in fewer sessions.
• Comfort. Being in a familiar environment can help you feel more comfortable opening up about your issues. You don’t have to worry about being seen entering or exiting your therapist’s office, and you can come as you are- with your sweats on, your pet by your side, and a warm cup of tea in hand!

What are the expectations for teletherapy sessions?

• Be ready to start the session at the scheduled time. It’s helpful to test your wifi, video, and audio in advance and have your phone nearby in case video technology fails.
• Make sure that other people cannot hear your conversation or see your screen during sessions.
• Use headphones so that you can avoid voice echo during your sessions.
• Do not use video or audio to record your session unless you ask your therapist for their permission in advance.
• Make sure to let your therapist know if you are not in your usual location before starting any telehealth session.
• You can not attend a therapy session while driving, or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is for your safety, and to ensure you get the most out of your session.
• If you are ever having suicidal or homicidal thoughts, actively experiencing psychotic symptoms, or experiencing a mental health crisis, you must tell your therapist as soon as possible. It may be determined that telemental health services are not appropriate and a higher level of care is required. If your therapist believes you are in imminent danger, she may call emergency services, but she will discuss other options with you first to help keep you safe.