I’ve never done telehealth or used SimplePractice before, where should I start?
You can start here! The link below will lead you to the Getting Started Guide to Telehealth by SimplePractice! This guide includes tips, tricks, and instructions on how to join a video session and other frequently asked questions!
What are the Benefits to Technology Assisted Counseling/Telehealth?
The benefits to TAC counseling are:
1. The ability to expand your choice of service provider.
2. More convenient counseling options including location, time, no driving, etc.
3. Reduces the overall cost and time of therapy due to not having to drive to and from and office.
4. Ability to have real time monitoring and reduces the wait time for scheduling office appointments.
5. Increased availability of services to homebound clients. clients with limited mobility, and clients without convenient transportation options.
What are the Limitations to Technology Assisted Counseling/Telehealth?
It is important to note that there are limitations to TAC counseling that can affect the quality of the session(s). These limitations include but are not limited to the following:
1. I cannot see you, your body language, or your non-verbal reactions to what we are discussing.
2. Due to technology limitations I may not hear all of what you are saying and may need to ask you to repeat things.
3. Technology might fail before or during the TAC counseling session.
4. Although every effort is made to reduce confidentiality breaches, breaches may occur for various reasons.
5. To reduce the effect of these limitations, I may ask you to describe how you are feeling, thinking, and/or acting in more detail than I would during a face-to-face session. You may also feel that you need to describe your feelings, thoughts, and/or actions in more detail than you would during a face-to-face session.
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.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.