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Telehealth Synonyms (just to name a few):

• Virtual Therapy
• Telepsychology
• Telemental health
• Online therapy
• Telebehavioral health
• Teletherapy
• Online counseling
• E-therapy

The American Psychological Association defines Telepsychology or telemental health as “the provision of behavioral and/or mental health care services using technological modalities in lieu of, or in addition to, traditional face-to-face methods (e.g., provision of therapy using the phone, diagnostic interviewing via teleconferencing, use of applications to track mood states, consultations via email).” In layman's terms, telehealth is simply therapy that you receive by way of technology.

These services can be provided through mobile devices (i.e. laptop computers, tablets, smartphones, etc.), videoconferencing, telephone, email, text, among others. It is important to note that direct psychological services typically involve the use of videoconferencing or telephone; whereas indirect services (i.e. scheduling, sending appointment reminders) are typically performed through text messages or email. Moreover, most insurance companies require the use of live videoconferencing sessions for reimbursement (although this varies from state-to-state and insurance company).

Is it Effective?

Yes!  Research continues to find online therapy to be just as effective as in-person therapy for a variety of issues and problems. However, there are a few things to consider when determining if it will be effective for you. Read below for more information.

Our clients have been highly satisfied with online treatment. We have successfully worked with clients online and in person throughout our clinical experience and have found it to be just as effective.

Our clients love the convenience of meeting online. Some were even a little unsure how it would help them and were gladly surprised with how personable and comfortable it felt. Still not sure? Give it a try and read more!

1. flexible scheduling
2. convenient
3. more privacy
4. just as effective as in person
5. same quality private practice care

Whether you’ve been in therapy for years, or new to the process, teletherapy can raise many questions. I want to help you answer them.

Teletherapy, also referred to as video, virtual, or remote therapy, is therapy conducted online. At Insight Online Therapy, my sessions are conducted using SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant platform, which is secure and easy to use.

Prior to our first meeting, I will send you an email with intake paperwork and a meeting invitation that includes a link to our session. On the date and time of our appointment, you will simply open your phone or computer, click on this link, and log into the session.

If for some reason your internet connection is unstable or our telesession is otherwise unable to run smoothly, we will transition to Google Meet or a Google Voice phone session, both of which are also HIPAA-compliant and secure.

Prior to our first session, I will review basic guidelines with you to ensure that you are comfortable using these various teletherapy platforms.

STRONG EVIDENCE IN RANDOMIZED CONTROL STUDIES & META-ANALYSES SHOW TELETHERAPY TO BE JUST AS EFFECTIVE AS IN-PERSON.

(Morlan, et. al., 2014) (U.S. Dept V.A., 2015)

Teletherapy is a great option for clients who face typical barriers to traditional, in-office therapy, such as location and accessibility, lack of convenient appointment times, and privacy concerns. It is also an excellent option for “therapy veterans” who are familiar with the therapeutic process and want to continue their practice from the comfort of their home.

Telehealth is NOT the best option for the following persons or situations:

• Individuals who are currently experiencing a crisis
• Clients that have thoughts of hurting themselves or others
• Minors or individuals under the care of a legal guardian
• Patients who have been diagnosed with a severe and persistent mental illness. These individuals are better served by comprehensive, in-person treatment
• Court-ordered therapy or individuals whose case might involve court proceedings
• Individuals who do not have Internet or a device (tablet, computer, smartphone)
• Anyone outside of the state of Florida and or New Hampshire. Otherwise, we are happy and able to offer telehealth to anyone in the entire state of Florida and New Hampshire 

Generally, teletherapy is not an ideal option for individuals actively struggling with acute drug or alcohol addiction, eating disorders, or self-harming tendencies. Because teletherapy sessions require a stable internet connection and a quiet, private place to meet for your sessions, teletherapy may also be unfit for individuals living in shared spaces with unreliable internet service.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT I  AM NOT A CRISIS CENTER, EMERGENCY HOTLINE, OR 24 HOUR MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE. IF YOU ARE FEELING SUICIDAL PLEASE CALL THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE AT (800) 273-8255. DUE TO THE NATURE OF TELETHERAPY WE CANNOT PROVIDE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT TO PEOPLE WITH SEVERE MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS