What is online counseling?

Health care has entered the age of technology. Telehealth services are on the rise and companies like Pager, Oscar and Talkspace (among many others) are disrupting the current insurance company standard and instead focusing on client (or patient) experiences. As a provider of online services, I find that there is a lot of confusion about what online counseling is and can be, so I thought I would share some thoughts with you with the hopes of clearing up any confusion.

Traditional counseling takes place in an office setting where you sit face-to-face with a therapist or counselor who talks you through your concerns and helps you explore solutions.  With online counseling, you can have a very similar experience. For example, if you contact me we will start with a free consultation where we can begin to discuss what's been going on for you lately and what you may be looking for in terms of support. From there we collaborate on a plan that meets your needs and then we're off to the races!

Online counseling services can include things like text based conversations and video or audio calls. It's very flexible based on your needs, budget and lifestyle. One of the great things I love about online counseling is the flexibility for both the therapist and client. With my online practice work, we talk through your concerns openly just like you would in a face to face setting. There are some obvious limitations as it relates to crisis care, but online counseling isn't built for that, at least not just yet. Video sessions are great for those who travel often or are otherwise unable to meet with a therapist.  

If you're looking to speak with a licensed therapist on a consistent basis but find traditional counseling too inaccessible or too hard to schedule then online counseling might just be a good fit for you.Whether you are trying to work through relationship concerns, work issues, depression or anxiety, or identity related (race, immigration, LGBTQ) concerns I can help. Submit an inquiry to begin your free consultation where you can learn about how online counseling could be beneficial for you.