Teletherapy definition
Can’t leave the office? Traffic too much of a pain? Feeling like you don’t want to get out of your comfy clothes or wanting a home-body day? Not a problem! Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, therapists have been using teletherapy to meet people’s mental health needs via secure online platforms. So, what is the teletherapy definition? In short, it’s the ability to receive therapy services over the internet in a location of your choosing, and still experience positive results. Receiving therapy online is an excellent alternative to coming in person; Researchers have shown that receiving therapy online is just as effective as it is in person.
Teletherapist
With teletherapy comes teletherapists. These therapists are the ones who use a computer and internet to connect with clients. Teletherapists can also be in-person therapists. There’s no official training to be a teletherapist; however, some states do require ongoing education and awareness around the benefits and protections that need to be in place to do telehealth.
Here are some other common questions that people ask when it comes to receiving therapy online and working with a teletherapist:
What do I need for online therapy?
For online therapy, or teletherapy, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and a computer, or a smartphone with audio and visual capabilities. Earbuds and a notebook are also helpful! Make sure you are in a safe, quiet, and comfortable place for your session.
What about my privacy?
Privacy is important, and crucial to online therapy and therapy in general. Because of this I provide clients with a secure and HIPAA-compliant platform that protects your personal health information as well as our conversations for our appointments together.
Is online therapy good for all situations?
Unfortunately, there are some situations where in-person therapy would be a better fit. These include:
- If you need crisis services
- You actively experience thoughts to hurt yourself or others
- You experience psychotic episodes, or hallucinate
- You have experienced past hospitalization for your symptoms
- You are addicted to using drugs and/or alcohol
For these symptoms and situations, I am happy to provide you with a referral to assist you in getting the help you need.
Remote therapist
So what’s a remote therapist then? A remote therapist is another word for a teletherapist. So, in addition to being an in-person therapist, I am also considered a remote therapist, as I am currently licensed in three states: Texas, Utah, and Virginia. Click on the state you live in to see the website for each of those places. If you’re curious about telehealth for therapy or have questions, send me a message below.
