What is an Online Therapy | Blue Oak Counseling

What is Online Therapy?

Online therapy is a cost-effective alternative to in-person sessions, but it's not for everyone. If you've been thinking about trying out online therapy for the first time, there are a few things to consider before making your decision

Online therapy is becoming more and more popular, as people are looking for ways to manage their mental health on their own. In fact, nearly half of all therapists offer online sessions these days.

But what exactly is online therapy?

Online therapy or Telehealth is a type of telecommunications technology where you meet your healthcare provider/ licensed therapists remotely.

Does online therapy actually work?

Online therapy is an effective way to treat your mental health issues, especially if you live in a rural area where there aren't many therapists or counseling centers nearby. You can also choose this option if you are traveling and want to continue with therapy while away from home.

Is online therapy covered by insurance?

Many states require insurance companies to cover online therapy just like they would traditional therapy sessions. To learn more, check out our FAQ page or contact your insurance company about how your healthcare plan will cover teletherapy.

What are the advantages of online counseling?

The benefits of seeing a therapist over video chat include the convenience, affordability, privacy, and accessibility. Online therapy is often more affordable than in-person sessions. Additionally, if you're feeling self-conscious about the way you look or don't want others to know what's going on in your life, using video chat for counseling is a great option. When it comes to both convenience and privacy, video chat therapy has the potential to be far superior to traditional in-person counseling.

Is online therapy safe?

Yes, Online therapy is safe. Healthcare providers are subject to HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) rules, which establish guidelines to ensure your personal health data won’t be disclosed without your knowledge.

Our online practice uses Simple Practice software to conduct therapy which is fully secure and HIPAA compliant.

“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you,

doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone.”

“All stress, anxiety, depression, is caused when we ignore who we are, and start living to please others.” Pualo Coethlo

What do you need to know about online therapy?

Since you'll be attending the session from the comfort of your own home, you can schedule sessions for the times you have available and are most convenient for you. You should have a confidential, quiet, comfortable space to meet your online therapist, strong internet or WiFi connection for video or calling, and have a phone, computer, laptop, tablet to use to talk to your therapist.

How to tell if you need to start doing online therapy?

You may not be able to travel to see a therapist in person.
You may have trouble getting time off work, or being able to afford the cost of travel.
Your physical condition could make it difficult for you to travel long distances by car or plane.
You may not be able to get out of bed due to illness or injury.

Online therapists can still help you receive therapy through online communication methods, such as video chat sessions and phone calls. Online therapy allows people who cannot get out of bed due to illness or injury still have access to mental health counseling without having to leave their home—and without paying high prices for transportation services like taxis or private drivers (which often cost more than face-to-face appointments).

Does online therapy help mental wellness?

Online therapy is designed to help you learn how to cope with your problems in a way that is both time-efficient and convenient. However, the effectiveness of this type of treatment can vary depending on the individual's motivation, presenting problems, and therapist's treatment approach. By having an online therapist means that there are no geographical limitations and people can connect at any time, which may be more convenient than traveling to a traditional therapist's office.

If your emotional and mental health are affecting the quality of your life as well as the other relationships in your life, then therapy can definitely help manage your symptoms, and develop a plan for solving the problem.

Ready to start managing your mental health? Click here to reach out to us!

A member of our team will be happy to discuss the next steps with you.