The COVID-19 pandemic has generated many surges in feelings, including uncertainty, fear, panic, anxiety, depression, isolation, and other challenges. Disruptions in routines, losing or postponing important life events, and separation from family and friends all take a toll on our mental health. Many people have experienced multiple losses, and many are concerned about potential losses in the future. These include jobs, identity, income, connections with friends, family, coworkers, neighbors and others with who we connect on a regular basis, and the ability to move about freely to explore the great outdoors. It can be difficult in these moments to know how to ask for—and receive—support.

 

During the pandemic, we are committed to helping you through these times. Our office has transitioned to online therapy as a best means to stay connected, or begin work with a new practitioner. Online therapy can be an important and engaging way to connect with one of our mental health professionals, enhance your support, and recapture and restore your strengths.

 

Below, we offer a few thoughts related to online therapy (also called telehealth, or teletherapy.)

 

What is online therapy?

Online therapy is talk therapy over video chat or telephone. Online therapy is a lot like therapy conducted in person. Before your first appointment you will receive a link that will take you to your individual therapist’s virtual waiting room.

 

Does it work? Is it effective?

Yes! Therapy in any form is reliant on the relationship between the therapist and the client. Though the medium is different, the relationship can still thrive and the therapeutic process can still be effective.

 

How does online therapy work?

Online therapy is very similar to therapy conducted in person. In your initial intake session, you will go over what brings you to therapy and our policies, and begin developing a relationship with your therapist. Any questions you have will be answered, and we will establish together how therapy will progress, meeting on an agreed upon schedule.

 

Is now a good time to start therapy?

Yes! Anytime you feel curious, ready, or invested in making a change is an excellent time to start. The Coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented experience and needing support to help cope with the changes and stressors is a totally legitimate reason to seek therapy.

 

Can I seek online therapy for things other than Coronavirus stress?

Absolutely! Therapy is all about meeting your needs. Whatever issue or needs brings you to therapy, we are happy to meet with you. 

 

Is online therapy private? How do you manage my privacy?

Yes, online therapy is private. We use HIPPA compliant video programs to ensure the privacy of all sessions. We follow confidentiality laws and vet our video programming, and continue to maintain securely managed electronic health records.

 

Will it be covered by insurance?

Many insurance companies are waving in person requirements and allowing online therapy to be covered. To be 100% sure, we encourage you to contact your insurance company directly if you have additional questions.

 

What if I want to meet in person?

We are currently following all CDC recommended guidelines and practicing social distancing precautions. Because the therapeutic relationship can be built online, we are using teletherapy for now to make sure that we follow our #1 priority, which is keeping our clients safe.