Telehealth

What is it?

Teletherapy is known by a variety of names, such as virtual visits, e-therapy, online therapy, telemedicine, and telehealth. Teletherapy became much more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, as we all needed to find modifications to see our healthcare providers while social distancing. Teletherapy has become very popular, given its ability to provide additional layers of comfort and accessibility to people who are wanting to pursue therapy but may have obstacles in their schedule or other barriers that make going to a physical office space not an ideal solution.

As a PSYPACT Authorized Holder, I am able to see patients who reside in states that have approved PSYPACT legislation.

Who is it for?

  • If you have a busy schedule and it’s hard for you to add a commute to an office to fit in your therapy appointment.

  • You are comfortable using your computer and have a stable Internet connection.

  • You do not routinely experience symptoms of psychosis, such as in the case of schizophrenia and manic episodes.

  • You are not in a mental health crisis. If you are having more acute needs, please utilize crisis resources (call 9-8-8, call 911, go to nearest emergency room)

  • You have privacy and feel comfortable speaking openly in your home.

how does it work?

I use a HIPAA-compliant electronic medical record that generates a video call for therapy appointments. You receive an email reminder a day prior to your appointment, with the link for you to join the appointment. Alternatively, you can log into your client portal and join your session that way. As a backup, I also use another HIPAA-compliant software, Spruce Health, for telemedicine appointments.

is it as effective as in person therapy?

From a scientific point of view, at this time there is no compelling evidence that in person therapy offers substantially better outcomes when compared to telehealth. In a recent meta-analysis (review of literature) conducted by Greenwood, Krzyzaniak, Peiris, et al. (2022), they noted no statistically significant discrepancies in effectiveness, patient outcomes, and process outcomes between in person and telemedicine therapy for most conditions. While my patients have routinely noted satisfaction and a preference for telehealth, it might not be a good fit for everyone. See above for details of who telehealth is likely not a good fit for.

Just like other aspects of therapy treatment, needs and preferences can change over time. For instance, if you encounter an acute phase of your illness that requires a higher level of care than outpatient treatment, we would get you connected with that care and discuss afterwards if it would be appropriate for you to return to telehealth. While telehealth offers significant convenience, my priority as your provider is always focused on what is in your best interest.

how do I prepare for a telehealth appointment?

Just like how I advise any patient to prepare for an in-person therapy appointment, I ask that you are intentional between appointments to take notes about your homework, topics that emerge throughout the week that you want to prioritize.

Before your appointment begins, I recommend you save some time before the start of your session to take a few breaths and center yourself for your appointment. You may be coming out of a stressful day at work, tough day with kids, or a hectic day in general. It can be very helpful to have time to breathe and settle, to be able to use our hour to the greatest extent. You also want to be sure that you are prepared with your computer, headphones, a private space to talk, and your video link ready to go.