Why Teletherapy?
Teletherapy is mental health treatment through an internet live video connection. This allows you to be seen in a space you are most comfortable, without commuting or waiting in an office, at your own convenience. Studies have found patients benefit from video therapy sessions equally to in-person treatment.
What if I can’t wait for an appointment?
If you are in an overwhelming situation, consider reaching out to your primary care provider for urgent services. Please look for websites or books to learn about mental health and your symptoms (like the American Psychological Association) to find a sense of hope that things can change. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text the word HOME to 741741.
Do you take insurance?
I am an in-network provider for Aetna insurance. Otherwise, I am an out-of-network provider for insurance companies. You will pay for services at each session and I will provide invoices to submit to receive possible reimbursement. Please be aware that insurance companies often require therapists to provide clinical diagnosis and treatment records. Please find out exactly which mental health services are covered by your insurance policy.
Why do some people choose an out-of-network psychologist?
An out-of-network psychologist is a therapist who has not entered into a reimbursement agreement with your insurance. You may choose an out-of-network psychologist for several reasons:
- In-network providers are unavailable or are scheduled weeks in advance
- You live in a rural area where there aren’t any practicing therapists
- You need a clinician with advanced training (e.g., a doctoral degree versus a master’s degree) with specialty in certain clinical problems or treatments
- You have a chronic and/or severe mental illness and your health insurance plan does not include coverage for these mental illnesses
There are many benefits to out-of-network care, including:
- You are free to choose your provider
- You do not have to obtain a referral from your primary care provider
- You are not required to get health insurance pre-authorizations for evaluations or
counseling sessions - You do not have any geographic limitations in regards to whom you choose
- Most health insurance plans cover some out-of-network charges
- Your medical history is kept confidential and stays strictly between you and your psychologist
What should I expect from therapy?
During our first appointments, I will learn more about your background and get a clear understanding of the difficulties that have led you to therapy. We will explore your personal goals for the process. For example, these might be to reduce worry, have fewer thoughts about traumatic events, plan steps to solve a problem, or improve relationships. For approximately four months, I will teach you skills to resolve or manage these difficulties. At the end of the therapy process, you will have developed new ways of seeing the world and responding to difficulties.
What about confidentiality?
You might seek therapy specifically because your personal information will remain between us. Our communication is protected by the same federal and state laws as all of your medical care (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA). There are some circumstances in which I am legally mandated to break confidentiality (for example, if you tell me about the abuse of a child or an elderly person). If you have any concerns about confidentiality, please discuss these with me.
What technical equipment do I need for virtual therapy sessions?
- A solid internet connection
- A computer, tablet, or cellphone with a camera and speaker
- A private space where you will not be disturbed (even if that’s a closet or car)
- A good pair of headphones to cut down background noise, sharpen sound quality, and help you feel as though you are talking to someone in the same room. Wired headphones with a microphone eliminate the possibility of headphones running out of battery during a session
How long do online therapy sessions last?
55 minutes.
Can virtual therapists prescribe medication?
I am a licensed psychologist; I provide talk therapy to improve emotional distress over a series of sessions. I do not prescribe medication. However, a psychiatrist can explore those options with you. Psychiatrists who work online can provide prescriptions for 90 days in accordance with DEA regulations.