What are distance sessions?
Online therapy, also known as e-therapy, e-counseling, teletherapy, web counseling, or cyber counseling, allows a therapist or counselor to provide psychological support via the Internet.
When you don't have the ability to see a therapist in person, distance sessions can be another way to get the support you need in a way that fits your life. With online counseling, you get the same expertise and similar engagement as you would during an in person session in the location that works best for you, and with the same level of privacy and confidentiality you require.
This type of therapy is gaining popularity because it
Online therapy, also known as e-therapy, e-counseling, teletherapy, web counseling, or cyber counseling, allows a therapist or counselor to provide psychological support via the Internet.
When you don't have the ability to see a therapist in person, distance sessions can be another way to get the support you need in a way that fits your life. With online counseling, you get the same expertise and similar engagement as you would during an in person session in the location that works best for you, and with the same level of privacy and confidentiality you require.
This type of therapy is gaining popularity because it
- Eliminates travel time and expense
- Makes mental health resources available to the homebound and people in remote geographic areas
- Gives clients more options when choosing a counselor
Considerations
Distance sessions have a number of benefits; however, there are several concerns to consider as well:
Electronic Connectivity – Poor connection quality or becoming disconnected altogether are potential drawbacks of e-therapy, especially if they occur during an important conversation.
Security – Security of the transmission is a top priority and our distance work will meet HIPAA-compliant privacy standards. This allows all communication and paperwork to be transferred easily and securely. This service is provided by VSee, which is free and the download is quick and user-friendly.
Equipment and Broadband – In addition to the encryption service, it is necessary to have access to a healthy broadband connection (384kbps at a minimum), which is usually met by a basic DSL or cable service provider. Dial-up Internet access is not sufficient. The only other equipment needed is a web camera.
Lack of Somatic Engagement – There is a palpable quality of being the in the presence with another that is clearly lacking in the digital format. Likewise I am limited in my ability to guide you through certain somatic techniques. Please know that I endeavor to verbally guide clients through such work even from a distance when appropriate.
Fees and Insurance – Distance sessions are fee-for-service. This means that they will not be covered by your insurance provider. Sessions will have to be paid upfront, by the client via electronic means. The fee for a one hour session by distance are the same as face-to-face in person meetings--$100 per hour (limited sliding scale rates are available for those in need--please inquire directly).
Who will distance sessions serve? – Distance therapy may prove to be unproductive for some clients with more serious mental health concerns. In those instances, referral to another local provider may be the best option.
In the event of an emergency, you will need to contact 911 or your local mental health crisis phone line. This number can often be located in the first few pages of any phone book under "Emergency Crisis Phone Lines." It can also be found by searching on the Internet for "mental health crisis phone number" followed by the inquirer’s city. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please stop now and phone the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), your local suicide hotline, or 911.
Please note that I do not work with clients under the age of 21.
Distance sessions have a number of benefits; however, there are several concerns to consider as well:
Electronic Connectivity – Poor connection quality or becoming disconnected altogether are potential drawbacks of e-therapy, especially if they occur during an important conversation.
Security – Security of the transmission is a top priority and our distance work will meet HIPAA-compliant privacy standards. This allows all communication and paperwork to be transferred easily and securely. This service is provided by VSee, which is free and the download is quick and user-friendly.
Equipment and Broadband – In addition to the encryption service, it is necessary to have access to a healthy broadband connection (384kbps at a minimum), which is usually met by a basic DSL or cable service provider. Dial-up Internet access is not sufficient. The only other equipment needed is a web camera.
Lack of Somatic Engagement – There is a palpable quality of being the in the presence with another that is clearly lacking in the digital format. Likewise I am limited in my ability to guide you through certain somatic techniques. Please know that I endeavor to verbally guide clients through such work even from a distance when appropriate.
Fees and Insurance – Distance sessions are fee-for-service. This means that they will not be covered by your insurance provider. Sessions will have to be paid upfront, by the client via electronic means. The fee for a one hour session by distance are the same as face-to-face in person meetings--$100 per hour (limited sliding scale rates are available for those in need--please inquire directly).
Who will distance sessions serve? – Distance therapy may prove to be unproductive for some clients with more serious mental health concerns. In those instances, referral to another local provider may be the best option.
In the event of an emergency, you will need to contact 911 or your local mental health crisis phone line. This number can often be located in the first few pages of any phone book under "Emergency Crisis Phone Lines." It can also be found by searching on the Internet for "mental health crisis phone number" followed by the inquirer’s city. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please stop now and phone the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), your local suicide hotline, or 911.
Please note that I do not work with clients under the age of 21.
For more information or to begin the process of scheduling a Distance Session please click here.
