I know it can be hard to find time in your busy day to come to the office. I also know how important it is for you to be able to access help in making the necessary changes to live the life you want to be living. I offer sessions both in office and online through a secure video conference platform.
Online Therapy
What is online therapy/telehealth?
Telehealth offers convenience, flexibility, and ease of access, while still providing the attentive and quality care you would receive coming to the office. I provide sessions via video using a secure and HIPAA compliant video chat platform.
Telehealth was gaining popularity prior to the recent pandemic; however, it became essential as we implemented social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. Clients of all ages have been able to participate in therapy using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Basic computer and internet literacy is helpful but not required. Many clients were shocked by how easy it was to access their secure and confidential video portal and participate in therapy sessions.
Who can benefit from online therapy or telehealth?
Research has found that therapy delivered remotely, through telehealth services, is as effective as therapy delivered in the office for a wide range of mental health concerns.
I offer telehealth as a treatment option for both new and existing clients. You can choose to participate in therapy exclusively via telehealth, or simply keep video sessions as an option for when you can't make it to the office. I treat adolescents and adults located anywhere in Florida or New Jersey.
Does Online Therapy (Telehealth) have any limitations?
Even though the video portal is accessible from any location, I can only provide telehealth services to clients located in states where I am licensed. Currently, I am able to provide telehealth services to clients located anywhere in Florida or New Jersey.
Like any treatment, there are some situations where telehealth is not recommended. Before beginning online therapy, or any other form of therapy, be sure to discuss potential risks and limitations of treatment.
Is there anyone who shouldn't use Telehealth?
Telehealth may not be a good fit for you if:
- You are currently in crisis.
- You have an unstable or unreliable internet connection.
- You are experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or other sensory disturbances.
- You are actively engaging in self-destructive, self-harm, or other self-sabotage behaviors.
- You struggle with maintaining attention and focus and/or are easily distracted during sessions.
- You are having or recently have had thoughts of harming yourself or someone else.
- You have vision or hearing difficulties that make participating in video chat difficult for you.
- You are struggling with eating disorder behaviors or are being treated for an eating disorder and your weight needs to be monitored.
Not sure if telehealth is right for you?
Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation. When scheduling, request a video consult and I’ll send you the information you will need to access the telehealth system. Then you can get an idea of what telehealth sessions will feel like.
Tips for optimizing your telehealth experience:
Schedule 15 -20 minutes before your appointment time to prepare for your session.
When you come to the office, you typically have time on your drive or in the waiting room to mentally prepare for session. At home, you might be tempted to jump right into session. Spending a few minutes gathering your thoughts and getting ready for session can help you maximize your session time.
Find a private, quiet location where you can minimize potential interruptions or distractions and where you have a good internet connection.
If there will be other people home with you, let them know you are unavailable for your session time. Plan in advance for potential interruptions or childcare needs.
Optimize your connection.
Disconnect anything that may be using bandwidth (ex. Netflix, video games, music, streaming television). Connecting from a laptop is usually the best quality, but any tablet or smartphone with internet access should work. Test the connection and try logging in before your first appointment to make sure everything is running smoothly and resolve any technical issues.
Have a backup plan.
Make note of my phone number and keep it accessible during your session in case there is a technical issue. I’ll be able to guide you through solutions over the phone or may suggest an alternative video conferencing platform.
Get comfortable and get ready to dive in.
Create a safe and comfortable space to have your online sessions. If you have to be creative with finding a quiet and private location, bring something comforting with you such as a pillow, blanket, or scented candle. Have water and tissues handy just in case you need them.