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.

6 Signs it's time to See a Therapist

Some people think it may be obvious when someone needs extra support in terms of therapy or professional counseling, but sometimes it isn't always so clear. Below are a list of signs that may indicate it might be time to pick up the phone and call a local therapist:

Your loved one suggests it

Loved ones or family members can be crucial in helping their loved one get the support they need. Others perspectives of us can be very helpful in identifying patterns of behavior or other issues that we may not be seeing ourselves.  If you're a loved one and want to speak to your partner, friend or family member about seeking professional counseling, be sure to speak from a place of concern and use "I statements" to help soften the blow.  Hearing that kind of feedback can be tough so always try to take a sympathetic stance when expressing your concerns.

You find yourself more forgetful or confused

When faced with extreme stress, depression or a host of other circumstances, frequent forgetfulness and confusion are indicators that there may be too much going on for you at the moment. This could come in the form of forgetting to pick up your kids from school or something as small as not remembering the items you needed to pick up at the grocery store. If you find yourself routinely falling into this new pattern, then it might be time to get some help.

You're having problems at work

Have you recently been written up after being thought of as a "good employee"? Do you find yourself unmotivated to complete your assigned tasks? Do you keep missing deadlines? All of these are indications that your circumstances might be getting the best of you.

Your relationships are suffering

If you find yourself arguing with your partner more often or feeling disconnected from your children or family, then it might be time to speak to a professional. If you're single, are you unhappy with your dating or sexual life? Then it might be time to get help. A professional can lend a supportive ear and help guide you in creating better relationships or maintaining those you wish to hold on to.  Working with a therapist can help you explore your behaviors, patterns and come up with concrete strategies that you can try to take an empowered approach to your relationships.

Your finances are off

If you're having trouble managing your money suddenly, then therapy might be a good fit. Are you gambling money away or racking up credit card debt due to shopping sprees here and there? Are you not paying your rent or mortgage on time? These are serious signs that you may need the support of a professional to help you manage before things really get out of control.

You don't feel well

You are the expert of your own mind and body. If you find yourself feeling "off" lately, then therapy is likely a good fit for you. Everything from ongoing fatigue to excessive worry and feeling "stuck" are all good indicators that a new intervention is needed. It might be time to switch it up!  Find a therapist who can help guide you into a new way of being.

While this is not an exhaustive list by any means, I hope this list has armed you with the knowledge of some of the indicators that counseling or therapy might be a good fit for you. Counseling isn't just reserved for extreme situations or illnesses, it can be helpful to all of us.  There's no shame in reaching out and getting some extra support as you work through some of life's challenges. We all need that from time to time. And you never know, it may turn out to be the best decision you've ever made for yourself.

Contact Viva if you are interested in getting started with therapy.