HOW TELETHERAPY WORKS

How Teletherapy Works

How Teletherapy Works

Are You Curious as to How
Teletherapy Works?  Learn More Below!


  • Does online therapy actually work?

    A recent review was conducted* of research studies that compared online therapy to traditional, in-office therapy. Evidence-based therapy models were used. The review showed both online therapy and in-office therapy produced similar outcomes for clients. A couple of those studies actually showed upon follow-up that online clients experienced a greater reduction in symptoms than in-office clients.


    *Berryhill, B., King, M., Betancourt, A., Ruggles, H. (November/December 2018). Telehealth Research: Videoconferencing in the Treatment of Anxiety and Depression. Family Therapy Magazine, 28-31.

  • How do I choose between distance counseling and traditional counseling?

    ​Each person is going to be different in their needs, making this a choice that is unique to your situation.  Because of certain safety factors, it is not advisable to utilize this avenue as a treatment if you have a history of frequent or intense suicidal ideation or severe substance use disorders that are not in remission.  Please feel free to schedule a consultation to determine if telehealth would be best for your circumstances.

  • What is the first session like?

    In our first session, we will go through and thoroughly assess for your symptoms and factors that led you into therapy.  This can be a little daunting to think about but be assured that we provide empathetic and nonjudgmental care.  Our assessment allows us the opportunity to get a history of your presenting problems and assist you in identifying your goals for treatment.

  • What technology do I need?

    Online counseling works best with a good internet connection with a computer, laptop, or other connected device. You will also need a webcam or built-in camera on the device that can be used in a comfortable place to talk in private without interruptions.

  • How do I know if it's right for me?

    For most people, it's simply a preference between meeting your therapist in-person or whether you prefer the convenience of meeting in the comfort of a private space of your choosing. You may also prefer online counseling if commutes and busy schedules are challenging. There are some situations where online counseling is not the best option. I'll talk through this with you. If online counseling is not the best option, I will help you find a local, in-person counselor to meet your needs.

  • Are you accepting new clients?

    Yes, I am currently accepting new clients for online counseling who are residents of Georgia, North Carolina and Utah. I will soon be able to meet with clients in Michigan as well. 

  • How long/how often will we meet?

    Frequency of sessions can be increased or decreased based on your need, preference, and availability. The overall length of treatment can vary significantly based on you and your goals. It is my priority to help you achieve your goals as quickly as possible, while still striving to create deep and lasting change. 

  • Is counseling confidential/secure?

    It is my highest priority to maintain confidentiality and security of my clients. I strictly adhere to regulations and use only HIPAA compliant platforms for online counseling.

  • Do you take insurance?

    Yes, I do accept most major private Insurance companies in NC. We are striving to continue the credentialing process in the other states which I am licensed. 


    If you are considering using insurance, I encourage you to contact your insurance company to inquire about Teletherapy coverage. The following questions may be helpful to ask: Do I have mental health coverage? Is telemedicine/telemental health/online counseling covered with this specific provider? How many sessions are covered? What coverage is available for out-of-network providers?

  • Will my parents have access to my counseling session?

    NO, this session is for you, just as if you were sitting in the office with me. 

  • Is what I share with my counselor private?

    You can talk to your counselor about anything, but there are a few things that they would be required to share with either your parents or other adults. If you share any of the following issues with your counselor, they would have to break confidentiality for your protection or the protection of others:


    • If you are seriously contemplating severely harming yourself or someone else.
    • If you share with your counselor that you are being abused or neglected, or know of another individual under 18 who is being abused or neglected. 
    • If you share with your counselor that you know of an elderly person who is being abused or neglected. 

    Please consult with your counselor about what kind of information and updates your parent(s) may get regarding your work with the counselor. 

  • Could we utilize Skype, FaceTime, Telephone, or Texting? I’m more comfortable with these platforms.

    Your confidentiality and privacy are our top priority. Unfortunately, these communication tools are not HIPAA compliant or secure. We will have to utilize a platform that outlines confidentiality policies and protects your health information.

  • What are the advantages of a tele-health vs. brick & mortar (physical) practice?

    Tele-health is effective as sitting in a therapist office for treatment. It offers more flexibility and convenience for clients who work late hours, live in rural communities, have physical limitations, transportation/commuting difficulties, and who are more comfortable in their natural setting. A secondary benefit of tele-health is the increased privacy and confidentiality of others not seeing you arrive/leave the office.

  • I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

    Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

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