Teletherapy is providing mental health therapy services via a secure online video platform or over the telephone. You receive the same services you would in person, only from the comfort and privacy of your own home. If you have ever used Skype or FaceTime, teletherapy is very similar.
Is teletherapy private?
Yes, receiving teletherapy is private. I use an encrypted service that is designed especially for health care professionals. I also ask that you find a quiet place in your home where you will not be disturbed. You are welcome to put on quiet music in the background if you are concerned other people in the house may hear you.
What do I need to be successful using teletherapy services?
You will need a good connection to the internet through a wired connection or WiFi. Please make sure that your WiFi router is set to private. You will also need a computer or a smartphone with a camera and a microphone. Please test that both of these are working before your first session!
Here is a quick pre-session checklist for you (adapted from PersonCenteredTech):
Quit out of all other non-therapy programs before the session. Some important examples of programs to quit are:
Skype. Even when you’re not making a call with it, Skype may be using your Internet connection. Please ensure you’ve quit Skype — not just closed its window.
Dropbox, Google Drive, and other file synchronization/sharing services. These use your internet connection in the background all the time to sync.
Cloud backup software. It’s easiest to shut them down for the duration of sessions. Remember to start them back up when you’re done, though!
Close web browser tabs or windows that you don’t need. Remember that many websites and web applications do a lot of Internet back-and-forth while you have them open.
Anything else you can find that’s open!
Either connect your computer to the WiFi router with a cable, or move very close to the WiFi router.
Make sure your antivirus program and system software updates aren’t scheduled to run during the session.
Close the door to your room so kids/pets/spouses don’t unexpectedly wander in.
Get yourself a snack, glass of water, etc. Get comfortable and then log in!
Feel free to reach out to me if you have further questions or concerns about teletherapy.