Is Online Therapy Right for You? Here are 7 Factors to Consider
As videoconferencing software improves, more therapists are incorporating online therapy into their practice.
Teletherapy can be incredibly convenient for both the client and the therapist, but there are a few differences that you should be aware of beforehand.
Here are seven factors to help determine if virtual therapy is right for you.
1. Where Do I Start?
Online therapy begins the same as in-person therapy. You should start by finding a licensed therapist that is the best match for your needs. An ideal therapist is one who specializes in the area where you need the most reinforcement and makes you feel comfortable to openly discuss your thoughts and feelings.
2. What is Treatment Setting?
You will need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a video camera to participate in teletherapy. Make sure to have high-speed internet and some headphones handy as well. A benefit of remote therapy is that you can receive the care you need from nearly anywhere in the world; however, you will want to ensure that your environment is appropriate for the session. Choose an indoor or outdoor location that encompasses the following:
Good lighting
A quiet space free from distractions
Privacy
3. Will It Feel Like a Total Therapy Experience?
The experience will be different than you might be used to in an office, but it can certainly be just as fulfilling. As long as you approach the session with the same open mind as you would in-person, the outcome will be just as rewarding. Research supports teletherapy as an effective form of treatment as well.
4. Will the Information I Provide Remain Confidential?
All communication between you and your therapist is completely secure. The difference with teletherapy is that it is up to the client to ensure that they are in a private location where information can be kept confidential. At AspenTeletherapy, we use SSL encrypted security for all communication and HIPPA compliant video technology.
5. What if I Don’t Like It?
Since you are a consumer buying a service, do not feel pressured to immediately schedule another appointment. If you want to contemplate the experience before making another appointment, take all the time you need. It is perfectly normal to test out a few therapists before moving forward. Ultimately, select a therapist in which:
You feel heard and respected.
There is an emotional connection.
Your expectations of therapy are being met.
6. What if I Do Like it?
If online therapy is a successful experience for you, talk to your therapist about continuing regular treatment. They will suggest a timeline based on your desires and the severity of your needs.
7. How Will I Pay for the Service?
It is always a good idea to understand payment before jumping into therapy. Each session at AspenTeletherapy is “self-pay” with a credit card at the time of your session. As a result, our session rates are extremely affordable by comparison.
Let Your Healing Begin with AspenTeletherapy
If you are local to Utah and are looking for the best resource for online therapy, choose AspenTeletherapy. Our professional and experienced therapists are all licensed in the state of Utah and are ready to give you the help you need.
We are proud to service all of Utah, including Salt Lake City, Orem, Provo, Lehi, Ogden, St. George, and everywhere in between. Reach out to get started on your path to healing today.
