Here at Balance Your World, we like to accommodate the needs of all individuals. While we offer telehealth services such as online therapy, it is highly preferred to do so after an initial in-office visit. We value traditional and modern customs, however, the primary goal is to provide the best practice in the level of care. Online sessions would be conducted through the portal site.

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A growing number of people are opting for telehealth to meet their mental health care needs. Online therapy, unlike traditional therapy, enables an individual to meet with their therapist from nearly anywhere in the world, so long as they have a stable and secure internet or phone connection. One of the most popular forms of telehealth in the mental health field is online therapy through a secure video conferencing platform, although some therapists may also offer phone or text therapy. Online therapy has also been called teletherapy, distance counseling, telemental health, and internet therapy.

 

WHY CHOOSE ONLINE THERAPY?

Therapists who practice online can provide services via video, text, phone, chat, or email. As technology evolves, so can telehealth: Therapists may guide people through challenges using the most useful and current communication technologies. 

Mental health professionals might offer telehealth as the main way to communicate with people who are seeking therapy. Some individuals prefer this type of treatment because they can get the benefits of therapy in their own homes or while traveling—this can be particularly helpful for people who live in remote locations, have busy schedules, or who have limited mobility due to disability or caregiving responsibilities.

 

HOW TO TELL IF ONLINE THERAPY IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Online therapy may be a good choice for people who live far from mental health resources. Those who have busy schedules or difficulty leaving home can also benefit from this form of mental health care. 

There are situations where telehealth is not recommended. For example, people with severe psychological or emotional issues may not always do well with this type of treatment. People with schizophrenia, severe depression, bipolar, or suicidal thoughts may get more from traditional therapy. Individuals with these and other issues may need intensive care.

Others who may not benefit from online therapy are those who are uncomfortable with technology. People with little privacy at home, those who wish not to share personal matters over the internet or phone, and individuals living in abusive situations may also prefer to see a mental health professional in person.

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LIMITATIONS AND ETHICS OF TELEHEALTH

  Telehealth may have some downsides. Concerns you might consider before beginning treatment include:

• Lack of nonverbal communication: Even with video conferencing, the therapist may not be able to notice signs such as dilated pupils, nervous foot-tapping, or twitching.

• Confidentiality issues if a person’s email is hacked or a message is sent to the wrong contact.

• Delays due to issues using equipment 

• Complications when treatment is provided across state lines: This may lead to ethical and legal issues related to licensing. Counselors who offer online therapy can treat people who live anywhere in the country, but state licensing laws often prohibit therapists from providing care to people who live in other states.

• Lack of skill with technology may lead to confidentiality issues if sensitive information is not properly stored or if equipment is not used correctly.

• Difficulty addressing severe or complex mental health concerns.

• Financial issues due to lack of coverage from some insurance policies.

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https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/modes/distance-therapy

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