Is online therapy right for you or your teen?
So you’re wondering if online therapy (or Teletherapy) is right for you or your teen. Because of COVID-19, many of us have become accustomed to getting things done in a virtual world. But what about therapy? Virtual therapy or online therapy is a great alternative to traditional or in-person therapy. Evidence from research shows that online therapy with video meetings is just as effective as meeting for therapy in person. And guess what? It’s a great option if you’re a busy teenager or person who always has a lot going on. Teens I work with tend to enjoy the ability to do therapy from their bedrooms, their safe space. And adults seem to love the flexibility of online therapy fitting into their schedules. We all know Tampa traffic can be a real drag, so why stress it? Get comfy, light a candle, and invite your pets. If you’re a parent or caregiver seeking therapy for your teen, it’s important to give them the space to have a private therapy session. Confidentiality is paramount to effective therapy with teens. See my FAQ section for more info about this.
Online therapy is right for you if….
You need the convenience of being able to do therapy that fits in with your busy schedule. No more driving to the office or getting stuck in traffic. You can make therapy work when you can do it on your terms. Finding an hour to do therapy is easier when you can do it on your lunch break or from the comfort of your own home.
You’re seeking therapy for a busy teen. Finding time for therapy can be difficult with all the extracurricular activities and events. Teen clients often find therapy to be less of a chore when they can fit it into their schedule more easily and do it from their most sacred space, their bedroom!
Vulnerability is hard for you. Many people say that it’s easier to build a relationship with their therapist and be more vulnerable when they are doing online therapy. There is just something about being in your safe place that allows you to open up a little more. Teens talk about this experience as well. It’s easier for them to let their guard down when they can have therapy in a place that feels most comfortable to them.
You live in the same state as your therapist. The current laws state that your therapist will need to be licensed in the state that you are living in to be able to provide therapy to you. You can ask your therapist questions about how or if they will be able to continue to see you if you will be in another state temporarily for school or other reasons.
You have a stable internet connection and can do therapy from a secure, private location. Yep, all you need is some good WIFI, a device with a camera, and a private space and you’re good to go!
Online therapy is not right for you if….
You don’t have privacy. Privacy and confidentiality are keys to a positive therapy experience. If you don’t have a private place to do therapy, then it might not be right for you. If you have questions about where to do therapy, you can talk to your therapist about that in your initial consultation call.
You don’t have a stable internet connection or a camera on the device you will use. Although you can expect some glitches and tech problems here and there, it is recommended that you have a stable internet connection if you are thinking about online therapy. A camera on the device you will be using is necessary.
You were recently released from a mental health facility, are active in addiction, or a danger to yourself or others. If any of these apply to you, online therapy might not be the right fit for you at this time. If you are experiencing a major crisis, you may need in-person therapy or more intensive therapy services. You can call 211 for more resources about this. Use this link to access more info about 211, the crisis hotline, or other services https://www.211.org/get-help/mental-health.
If you want more information about the effectiveness of online therapy, here is an article by the American Psychological Association for you to check out!
