THERE ARE SO MANY REASONS TO DO ONLINE THERAPY!
Access
There is no worrying about finding the office or sitting in a waiting room, anxiously waiting for your appointment. With teletherapy, you will be in the comfort of your own home. You can have your cozy blanket, favorite mug, and all the things that make you feel at ease. What better way to open up than in the safety of your own space?
Privacy
It is possible to run into someone you know when coming to or leaving your therapy session in a typical office location. Teletherapy removes any chance of someone you know bumping into you.
Efficiency
Time is a precious resource for all of us. Teletherapy reduces the chances of wasting your valuable time in traffic jams or accidents. Plus, the commute to an office can be particularly distressful for those struggling with conditions like anxiety or trauma… or those who don’t have ready access to transportation. Unexpected road closures or construction (especially here in Colorado) can push you to race in, anxious about being late or missing your therapy appointment time. This often results in the session being about de-escalation rather than what you’d actually like to work on in therapy.
Flexibility
Teletherapy allows for maximal flexibility if you’re overworked or over-committed. A lot of high-achievers need therapy, but they have very little spare time. Plus, being able to reschedule and integrate emergency sessions is relatively simple with teletherapy.
Safety
Severe winter weather can put a kink into regularly scheduled sessions in an office. Icy roads, slushy snow, and inexperienced winter drivers can wreak havoc on Colorado roads. Such concerns are eliminated in teletherapy.
Illness
When you’re ill or concerned about illness, therapy in an office can put you and others at risk. With online therapy, there’s no need for illness to cause last-minute cancellations. Being able to continue working with your therapist, especially when ill, can be of great benefit.
Timeliness
There’s no need to be concerned about traffic jams, getting lost on the way to the office, or running low on gas. When sessions begin at the click of a button, it’s a no-brainer that having an electronic device within reach will make sessions timelier.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TELETHERAPY…
Online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy sessions and even more effective in some ways. I will present in the same manner online as I do in person. I will focus on the things you say and making connections for you. I will notice non-verbal communication and ask you questions about what it means to you. We can use EMDR online as well, which can be effective as it gives you an idea of how to use the EMDR apps at home to increase meditation and mindfulness.
Most importantly, there is more comfort in teletherapy as you are in your space. Overall, the access to mental health therapy has improved with teletherapy. If you struggle with severe anxiety or depression, telehealth sessions can be extremely beneficial. For those with anxiety, the idea of going to a new location and meeting a stranger can feel daunting. For those with depression, the idea of getting ready and driving to an office space can feel overwhelming.
TELETHERAPY “DOS AND DON’TS”
To make the most out of your telehealth session, it is best to have a laptop with a consistent Internet connection. Mobile hotspots can work if your regular Internet is acting up. Smartphones work as well, but I do not recommend smartphones for EMDR.
I am also offering phone conversations that can be more convenient for clients who struggle with electronic devices. However, EMDR will not be possible via phone sessions.
As for space considerations, this is entirely up to you. It is best to have a quiet space to think and maintain a therapeutic conversation.
It is not recommended to participate in therapy sessions while driving or otherwise distracted. You cannot get the most out of the session if you have other distractions.
“You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” –Zig Ziglar
THIS DECISION IS COMPLETELY WITHIN YOUR HANDS!
Telehealth therapy has become a phenomenal resource for allowing me to help my clients. At your appointment time, you will have either a video link, or I will call you (this is your decision). The session will be conducted where you feel most comfortable, and shoes are completely optional!
All insurance companies are paying for client’s telehealth sessions, just as they would for in person sessions.
With telehealth being so easily accessible, what are you waiting for? There really is no excuse to keep putting therapy off. Imagine reaching your goals and living the life you want.
Therapy can help you make this happen! Call or text me at (720) 629-2729 for a free consultation.