TELETHERAPY ARKANSAS
Online therapy, also known as telemedicine, is growing in popularity. Telehealth is when a mental health therapist provides services and support over the internet through an online video chat format. It’s similar to Facetime or Skype, however, we use the HIPAA-compliant Zoom app so your personal health information is kept encrypted and confidential. You can do a telehealth session from your smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera, microphone, and speaker.
There are many benefits to virtual therapy.
Like anything new, it can be strange at first, and while it’s not the same as in person, it’s much better than nothing and in some cases may actually be the best option available.
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Teletherapy is Convenient
We often feel like we are too busy for therapy and keep putting it off until some magical time in the future when we think we’ll have more time. But then our problems just keep growing. Many clients have shared that they wished they would have started therapy sooner. One of the top benefits of telehealth is that it is convenient.
Online therapy saves time driving to the office. Whether you live far away or only have a 1-hour lunch break and don’t have time to get to and from appointments, remote therapy can be a very helpful option. Our therapists can provide virtual therapy for anyone in the state of Arkansas, making therapy available to many people for whom treatment would otherwise be inaccessible.
Teletherapy can also be useful if you can’t leave your home due to anxiety, depression, illness, injury, bad weather, and so on. Or if you slept in late, get stuck in traffic, or are traveling for work, instead of missing your appointment and going without care, you can still do a remote therapy session.
The world has changed a lot in the past year, but one great thing is that no matter what is going on outside, you can still get top-quality care from our therapists. Online therapy can help you can through this tough time.
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Online Therapy is Comfortable
Teletherapy can be done from the comfort of your own home. Some clients have found that they are able to speak more openly when they’re relaxed at home, allowing for more therapeutic breakthroughs.
While we do observe all CDC guidelines for extra sanitation, mask-wearing, and social distancing, remote therapy is available for those who want to be as safe as possible.
In addition, if you are doing co-parenting sessions, where it may be awkward to be in the same room with your ex, telehealth may be a more comfortable option for both of you.
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Virtual Therapy is Effective
Research over the past decade has consistently shown that telehealth is effective and provides quality of care on par with in-person services. While the majority of our clients have been highly satisfied with their teletherapy sessions, we do offer in office for those that prefer to meet in person.
How to Prepare for a Teletherapy Session
Treat your virtual therapy sessions just like you would in person. Come prepared with goals or points to discuss so you can get the most out of your time.
Protect your time and your privacy. As much as possible, plan ahead to avoid or at least minimize distractions during your teletherapy session. Put a “Do not disturb” sign on your door. Use a white noise machine to block outside noise and also muffle your voice to give you some privacy. You can ask roommates to take a walk or take a walk yourself, sit in your car, or drive somewhere else like a park. Turn off the TV, radio, etc.
Get all situated. Find a comfortable chair. Get some water, tea, or other favorite beverage. Have a snack before so you can think clearly about what you want to talk about. Close all other browsers and apps to ensure you have the best connection possible (and reduce distractions!).
Make sure there is good lighting. Avoid having light above or behind you, as it can cast dark shadows on your face. If it’s distracting to see your face on the screen, hide it with a sticky note or minimize the app. Create before and after routines to help separate “therapy time” from “non-therapy time”. For couples especially, schedule a fun activity to do together after, like watching a movie or your favorite show.
