There are many individuals that are apprehensive about teletherapy. Because of accessibility, telehealth therapy has become increasingly popular. There are many benefits to telehealth therapy for clients. Benefits can be the convenience, accessibility, comfortability, etc. Although there are many benefits, individuals still struggle with the idea of remote therapy. There are quite a few misconceptions/ myths of telehealth therapy. Myths can include telehealth therapy not being as effective, not being able to build a therapeutic relationship, etc. Although some people just prefer in-person therapy, there are individuals who are misinformed by these myths, which can prevent individuals from seeing the benefits of virtual therapy.
Misconceptions of virtual therapy:
- You cannot build a therapeutic relationship via telehealth
Some individuals fear that not seeing a therapy in-person will make it feel impersonal. This is not the case; telehealth therapy allows the client to still see and interact with the therapist.
- Telehealth therapy is not secure
It is normal to fear that personal information is not secure. Telehealth therapy services are mostly done through secure HIPAA compliant platforms like ours to help protect clients personal and sensitive information.
- Therapists do not like doing telehealth therapy
Some therapists may not prefer remote-based therapy. Those that do, find it very helpful, as the client typically is comfortable in their own environment, this allows the client to more open and allows the therapist to see surrounding issues they may not otherwise see in person.
The benefits to telehealth therapy:
- Convenience
There are little to no barriers to using telehealth therapy. You do not have to drive to a location, make time for driving and traffic, waiting in a waiting room, etc. Instead, you can jump on your therapy session wherever you are, even from the comfort of your own home.
- Seeing a therapist sooner
With many practices, it is typically easier to get into a therapist via telehealth than it is for in-person. It also allows people who are less flexible on time, get in at a time that will work for them. There are also therapist who go through advanced training to better optimize the telehealth therapeutic environment.
- The ability for a remote client to see a preferred therapist
Not all cities or towns provide mental health resources. Telehealth therapy allows individuals who do not live close to the therapistโs office, to still be able to see the therapist of their choosing.
We have learned through the Covid-19 pandemic that when we are sick, we are unable to be around people and end up having to cancel appointments. With teletherapy, you can keep your appointments if you feel up to it no matter if you are sick or not. This provides a safe environment for both the client and therapist.
- More accessible for those with a disability/chronic illness
Teletherapy allows those who are disabled to not have to travel to an office to receive therapy. Many individuals with chronic illnesses may not feel well enough to drive or even walk, they may need to close to a restroom, or even food/drinks that are medically necessary, which virtual therapy helps them achieve by staying home.
