What is teletherapy?

WHAT IS A TELETHERAPY SESSION LIKE? 

Really, in many ways, teletherapy looks and feels very similar to traditional in-office therapy. The device you use is only a means for communication. My job is to help you feel comfortable in your session, regardless of location. Eye contact, facial gestures, active listening, non-verbal communication and validation are still a very important and present part of the connection. I will engage with you and look for the same from you.  Teletherapy is still very active therapy.

DOES TELETHERAPY WORK? 

Research shows teletherapy can be just as successful as traditional in-office therapy. All therapy requires a commitment, open communication between client and therapist, active work toward growth and goals and a healing mindset to move toward achieving success. Sometimes being in your own environment can even work better. As much as I try to make an office feel comfortable, it is still a strange place. For some, being in one’s own environment can feel safe and more relaxed. It gives a chance to bring in unique opportunities like sharing your pet, your favorite chair, or your back yard as part of the therapy session. And there is something uniquely special when you have a big win surrounded by the space that is yours.  

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? 

There is no difference in cost between teletherapy and in person therapy.  Like in person therapy, cost is determined by time spent in session and session type.   

WILL INSURANCE COVER TELETHERAPY? 

Maybe.  Teletherapy is much more common but as always, you will want to check your specific insurance benefits to know your coverage. Please take this responsibility seriously so you are not caught off guard.  

HOW DO I GET TO MY TELETHERAPY SESSION? 

You will receive a reminder either through email or text (whatever you sign up with) a few minutes before the scheduled time of your session that will take you to a safe and secure portal link.  You will simply click on that link at the time of your appointment, follow a couple basic security steps and I will connect on the other end.  From there we will video chat, similar to Facetime or Duo.  For your very first appointment you may be asked to do a simple download to get the app particularly if you choose to use your phone or tablet.

IS TELETHERAPY SAFE? 

Living Story Mental Health and Healing only uses the secure and HIPAA compliant video conferencing platform through Simple Practice to set a high standard of confidentiality. We will not use other means like Facetime, Duo, Messenger, etc. as these are not HIPAA compliant and do not focus on your privacy and security. Please know you have some inherent responsibility on your end to be aware of your surroundings to maintain your privacy as well.  

WHAT DO I NEED? 

You can do your session using a desk top computer, laptop, tablet or your cell phone. You will need a working web cam and speakers on your device.   Because of the security in place for the system, you will need to have a strong and reliable internet connection. You will also want to make sure you have your device charged and keep your power source (charger) close by just in case. As a general practice, you will want to close any extra web browsers, tabs, extraneous windows, etc. on your device to help with quality and functionality.  

WHERE SHOULD I BE FOR MY SESSION? 

Teletherapy offers a great deal of flexibility, allowing you to do your session from home, work or wherever you might be.  Please keep a couple things in mind: You will want to be someplace that is quiet and private so you feel comfortable fully engaging in your session. Set yourself up for comfort and focus on the healing and growth that you want to take place in your session.  You are responsible for protecting your privacy. Be aware of your surroundings. If something changes unexpectedly, notify me immediately. You will need to be ready to provide the address of your location at the beginning of your session. You may not be driving during your session.  If you are driving, I will not be able to engage in your session with you until you have pulled your vehicle over to a safe location and turned your engine off completely. This may result in a shortened session or the session may need to be cancelled all together, resulting in a late cancellation fee.    

 CAN I GO OUT OF TOWN AND SITLL DO THERAPY? 

You are able to do your teletherapy session from anywhere within the state of Indiana, so enjoy that in-state business trip or quick get-away, while still taking care of you!