Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Virtual Therapy?

Your therapist will schedule with you like any other session. For video conference, your therapist will send you a link to access her/his private virtual waiting room. For telephone therapy, your therapist will call you at your preferred phone number at the designated time. Like in-office therapy, you will want to provide your full attention and time to the work during the hour. The same expectations and structure of therapy take place virtually, and you can expect reliability and professionalism from your therapist.

2. How does it differ from in-person therapy?

Virtual therapy is conducted using a real-time video connection allowing you to see and speak to your therapist safely. Some clients have worried that video sessions will not lead to the same strong connection with their therapist as in-person appointments. We have found there are a few ways to increase effectiveness and connectedness of the therapeutic relationship including ensuring a strong internet connection with closed browsers and reduced distractions, positioning the camera so your therapist can view your body language, closing the self-view so you are not distracted by your own image, and alerting your therapist to any barriers to the therapeutic bond.

3. Is Teletherapy Effective?

Yes. There has been plenty of research supporting the effectiveness of virtual psychotherapy. Additionally, many have found undergoing treatment within their home space allows both increased convenience as well as an easier transfer of skills out of the office and into real life.

4. Is Virtual Therapy covered by my insurance?

Yes, most likely your insurance coverage is the same for in-person and teletherapy due to extended coverage during COVID-19. In fact, many insurance plans have eliminated patient responsibility of copayments and deductibles. We are happy to speak with you more about your individual insurance coverage, and you are encouraged to check your benefits before beginning treatment.

5. What about my privacy?

Our therapists can guarantee privacy from our end. We recommend you take steps at your residence to ensure privacy as well. Our therapists are all conducting sessions from a private room, free from distractions and interruptions. The virtual video platforms are not recorded as well as private, requiring the therapist to admit clients and eliminating risk for interruption.

Prepare for Virtual Therapy

Attention: Respect the process and the frame of therapy. This means to show up to your appointment as you would show up to the therapy office. Although it is tempting to pour a glass of wine and curl up in bed, therapy is most effective when you are clear-headed and alert.

Identify a time you can dedicate your undivided attention to your therapeutic work, free from interruption and distraction. This may involve blocking off time in your work or family calendar.

Privacy: Utilize a private room where you can be alone and not overheard. Placing your phone outside your room with white noise and wearing headphones may help prevent housemates from overhearing therapy sessions.

Location: If you are joining your session from a location other than your home, please let your therapist know your location for safety reasons.

If possible, take your appointment in the same place each week. Using the same space will help you return to your therapy frame of mind and more easily recall and build upon previous therapeutic gains.

Technology: Ensure your internet connection is strong. We recommend you use a computer to free up your hands and allow you to sit comfortably. Download the latest version of the video platform your therapist uses and close all other browsers to reduce the chance for technical issues.

Comfort: Get comfortable! Finding a comfortable chair and position allows you to focus on yourself and the therapy. You can get cozy with pillows, a blanket, and a box of tissues in case you need them.