Finding atherapistyou click with (and can afford) is often hard and even anxiety-provoking.
But finding a therapist isnt the only potential hurdle when it comes to looking after yourmental health.
Enterteletherapy, also called telepsychology, which allows you to talk to a therapist remotely through technology.
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But how do you make the most of teletherapy?
Here are the ins and outs of telepsychology, plus how to maximize your appointments.
Teletherapy can happen via basically any form of digital communication.
With that said, many therapists prefer video teletherapy over other forms.
I can see if a client is tearful, whereas I may not hear it.
Teletherapy can provide many benefits of IRL therapy without some of the hassles.
Remote appointments do come with some unique perks.
For one: The lack of a commute.
This may lower your stress levels and allow you to better focus on your session, notes Issa.
Teletherapy also means youre generally able to have sessions somewhere you are comfortable.
Issa notes that the safety of being in your own space may help you open up emotionally.
A lot of the time I would get emotional during our [sessions], Allyson tells SELF.
This was the case for Allyson, who used teletherapy with her therapist in Kansas after relocating to Massachusetts.
I had been searching for a good therapist since I was in high school.
I always looked forward to seeing her.
It was like FaceTiming a friend for an hour.
Of course, it takes time to get to know anyone, whether through teletherapy or in real life.
With that said, teletherapy isnt right for everyone.
Even with those precautions, it can make more sense to see a therapist in person if possible.
HIPAA-compliant means the platform is compliant with the privacy laws that keep your health information secure, Baggett explains.
Typically the only platforms that are secure are ones designed specifically for the delivery of telehealth.
Platforms typically say if theyre HIPAA-compliant, as the servicesRegrouptelehealth.com,Simple Practice, andDoxy.medo.
But it’s possible for you to still double-check to verify.
You should also verify you understand any costs on your end.
Some teletherapy companies charge for monthly memberships or sessions and dont take insurance.
Other times, you may be able to useinsuranceto cover some or all of your teletherapy.
But since every provider and company is different, you should call your insurance company first to confirm.
Here are a few ways to see to it your teletherapy sessions go well.
Going through these steps can help calm some of your pre-appointment nerves:
1.
Some clients really enjoy a few minutes in their therapists waiting room to collect their thoughts.
you’ve got the option to absolutely do the same thing at home.
Check that youre using the best browserfor the service youre connecting through.
Often, the company will state which one this is upfront.
check that its up to date before your conversation.
Same thing if youre using an app.
If you have concerns or insecurities about teletherapy, voice them with your therapist.
Be patient, too.
