How does online therapy/teletherapy work?

Telehealth therapy is a form of mental health treatment that uses telecommunications technology to connect patients with mental health professionals. This can include video conferencing, phone calls, text messaging, and online chat platforms. The therapy sessions are conducted remotely, allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their own homes.

Here is a general overview of how telehealth therapy works:

1. Scheduling an Appointment: Patients can schedule an appointment with a mental health professional who provides telehealth services. This can often be done online or over the phone.

2. Preparing for the Session: Before the session, the patient may be asked to complete paperwork or assessments to provide the mental health professional with information about their mental health history and current symptoms.

3. Connecting with the Mental Health Professional: The session will take place via video conference, phone call, or another telecommunication platform. The mental health professional will connect with the patient at the scheduled time.

4. Conducting the Session: The mental health professional will conduct the session as they would in an in-person appointment. They may ask questions, provide guidance and support, and offer coping strategies or other treatment options.

5. Follow-Up: After the session, the mental health professional may schedule a follow-up appointment or provide resources for the patient to use between sessions.

Some forms of telehealth therapy, such as virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET), may require additional equipment, such as a virtual reality headset. However, the general process of scheduling, preparing, connecting, conducting, and following up on telehealth therapy sessions is similar to traditional in-person therapy sessions.

It is important to note that telehealth therapy may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients with severe mental health conditions or those who require in-person care, such as medication management or crisis intervention, may need to seek in-person care. However, for many individuals, telehealth therapy can be a convenient and effective option for receiving mental health treatment. Get in touch to find out more.