What is Online Counseling? It's also known as Telecounseling, Telehealth, Virtual Counseling (or many other names). Teletherapy is delivered through a virtual platform via a computer, phone, text, and email. Online counseling has been around for a little while now. Suppose you’ve ever FaceTime with friends or loved ones. In that case, it’s the same thing – except we are using HIPAA-compliant platforms and with a licensed therapist However, since COVID-19, Teletherapy has become one of the safest ways of seeking counseling services.
How does Online Counseling work? It works the same way traditional therapy works. Well, except we aren’t in the same room. Many approaches used in in-person counseling settings can be delivered similarly or slightly modified when working with clients via telehealth.
Is it Private? The same ethics and laws apply as in traditional face-to-face settings. As a therapist, I am ethically and legally bound by privacy laws not to share details about your teletherapy sessions with third parties.From the client’s end, it is also down to them to ensure they conduct their session in an equally private area to protect their privacy and confidentiality.
Convenient
Flexible
Private
Saves time for commute
Reduced wait times
Accessibility for students, rural areas, lower-income individuals, and people living with chronic conditions.
Change of scenery can help in getting “unstuck” during the therapeutic process
Evidence that bilateral rhythmic movement may help with processing trauma
Unique options for grounding, relaxation, and mindfulness
Greater connection to the natural world and the environment has been show to improve overall well-being
Less formal, and can be more accessible (meet at a variety of places)