Who may benefit from Teletherapy? Research has demonstrated teletherapy services to have similar rates of success to in-person sessions for those whom psychotherapy sessions are indicated. They are a great solution for days when traffic is crazy, business meetings are hectic, or other unforeseen issues arise that might prohibit you from making it to the office. It's also a wonderful way to access counseling services for those living in areas where service options are limited.
How long is a Teletherapy session and what's the cost? Teletherapy sessions are the same length as in-person sessions (50-55 minutes). My self-pay rates for teletherapy sessions remain the same. Many insurance companies began covering teletherapy sessions during the pandemic and have continued to do so. So, if you're an insurance client, your copay remains the same! However, some of these pandemic-era policies are beginning to change, so please stay up to date on your plan benefits. You'll want to check that your plan covers this type of service and that I am in network with your plan to provide psychotherapy sessions via telemedicine to you, on the HIPAA-Compliant platform of my choosing. If your insurance does not cover this service, you may still utilize teletherapy at my self-pay rate. It is the client's responsibility to verify their benefits with their insurance company.
Do you see children via telemedicine? In most cases, no. While in some cases play therapy may be done virtually, I have found myself to be more effective with children in person. I will discuss utilizing this service with older tweens and teens on a case by case basis.
Do you use this as your primary form of treatment? It can be! Research shows similar results to treatment provided virtually and in person, and in most cases, I can utilize the same evidence-based tools virtually as in my office. Factors to consider when deciding whether this is right for you: your comfort level with technology, your internet connection (a bad connection can make sessions feel disjointed and clients less connected), your ability to secure a confidential and generally undisturbed space, and your comfort level interacting over a screen.
Can you see me via teletherapy if I am traveling or live outside of Texas? I am licensed in the state of Texas and in most cases I am not legally able to provide services across state lines.
Tips for a Successful Teletherapy Session:
Consider using an Ethernet cable rather than Wifi to connect for sessions. While Wifi will work, you may experience a better connection using a cable.
Ensure laptops and mobile devices you plan to use for your session are plugged in or well charged.
You will want to arrive at least 20 minutes early for your first video session to make sure you are comfortable with the log in process and trouble shoot any issues you may be having.
If we have connection issues, we may briefly attempt to trouble shoot these within our session. If the issues become extensive or we get disconnected, I WILL CALL YOU. We may continue our session via phone call if we are unable to resolve the video issues in a reasonable time period.
Choose an area in your home or office that is isolated and has a good sound barrier. You may consider purchasing an inexpensive sound machine to improve confidentiality. You can even find white noise "videos" on You Tube for free! Ensure proper care for children and pets during your session and remind others in the home you should be undisturbed for your session time.
If using a mobile device, be sure to allow enough time to download the Simple Practice app prior to your first session.