Online Therapy
In March 2020, I began conducting all therapy sessions online due to COVID-19. After getting vaccinated, I returned to the office for a couple years but ultimately decided to take my practice back to 100% online. Online therapy may sound like a great convenience to you, or it might sound really strange. Either way, this page provides more information about what it is, how it works, and what to expect, and can help you decide if online therapy is an option for you and your child to explore.
It can be just as effective as in-person sessions for most people
Sometimes it’s called telehealth, teletherapy, e-therapy, or video therapy. Whatever you call it, research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in person therapy. It’s still a safe space to share what’s on your mind without being judged. If you’re used to in-person therapy, it will feel a little different at first - but just like you might have been a little unsure the first time you started therapy, you’ll get more comfortable with it after you try it.
A lot of teens and middle schoolers actually find that they’re more comfortable sharing their feelings in the safety of their own bedroom. Often, our bedrooms are where we feel the most comfortable and secure; Really it makes for an excellent space to feel safe while talking about difficult topics. Sometimes pets join in on the session and can provide a great feeling of safety, acceptance, and love. Dogs are some of the best therapy assistants!
It’s more convenient than in-person therapy
You don’t have to drive anywhere, so it’s easier to fit into your schedule. If someone in the family is under the weather, it doesn't mean therapy has to be cancelled. Kids middle school age and older are usually able to take care of the whole process on their own. This is not only more convenient for parents, but also helps kids gain a sense of independence to be able to manage their own therapy sessions. Of course parents can be involved in their child or teen’s treatment by either joining at the beginning of the call or by communicating with me outside of sessions. Learn more about what the first session is usually like by reading my blog post on the subject.
Just one more hour of screen time a week can improve the rest of the hours in the week
Some parents have concerns about adding one more hour of screen time into their child’s week, which I totally understand. A lot of activities, including school itself, became virtual in 2020, and it can seem like a bad idea to add another screen-based activity. But therapy, including online therapy, can actually help kids and teens cope with the stresses that come with this new screen-intensive life. One more hour of screen time a week can help improve the remaining hours of the week.
If you’d like to talk more about what online therapy could be like or to set up a consultation, contact me.