Telehealth counseling can be convenient and improve access to therapy services; however, there are several key considerations when deciding if virtual therapy is an appropriate choice for you.
Synchronous versus Asynchronous
Virtual counseling may include communication provided synchronously in real time via video/audio or telephonic (i.e. telephone) means. Asynchronous communication which does not occur in real time (i.e. delayed communication) is another form of service which may be offered by counselors (e.g. emails, pre-recorded multimedia, text messages, social media, or blogs). It is important to discuss the type of services you are expecting to receive with your potential therapist.
Location
Please understand the client’s location at the time services are provided are very important. Counselors hold state licenses and the boundary of the state applies to virtual services. This means if you are planning to travel out of state you will not be able to engage in services while outside the state your counselor is licensed. Choosing an appropriate location should also involve consideration of noise and other interruptions. While avoiding disruption is important, client’s may also consider choosing spaces that enhance the therapeutic experience such as through sight, smell, touch, etc.
Effectiveness
Telehealth services are not the same as traditional face-to-face counseling as client and counselor will not be in the same room. Therefore, counseling services rendered via technology may include losses in processes as counselors are observers of human behavior and also gather information from body language/non-verbal cues. Counselors and clients should continue to assess at each session if telehealth services are appropriate.
Administrative Activities
We often think of therapy as verbal exchanges; however, there are also administrative processes which require signatures and other times where documentation needs to be exchanged. Client’s should be comfortable working with various digital applications and processes in order to avoid additional hurdles to the therapeutic process. Discussions about administrative requirements should include an understanding of how payments are processed and if printers and/or fax are required.
Technology
An internet connection of at least 10 MBPS is recommended. It is further recommended clients connect to the internet via an ethernet cable versus Wifi when possible. When engaged in telehealth services via video/audio ensure no other background applications or programs are running. In some instances technical difficulties present a barrier to services, having devices updated and testing connections prior to services may mitigate risks. Appointments obstructed by poor or lost connection which cannot be resolved will likely be rescheduled.
Confidentiality
Counselors strive to offer confidential and HIPAA compliant services. The limits of confidentiality should be discussed with your counselor. Most importantly, understand that your provider cannot protect information you share with others. Clients are responsible for safeguard measures related to their personal device(s) and exposure of any information being transmitted to or from the location the client is engaged in electronically provided services.
Emergencies
In the event a client or counselor experiences an emergency, if possible the individual experiencing the emergency should call their local emergency number or 911 for immediate assistance. During an emergency your counselor is limited in the amount of support they can offer virtually. You should authorize emergency contacts with your provider so they may assist by informing the contact of the situation. These contacts should include individuals other than those likely to be located in your proximity when you engage in services.
Lifestyle and Perceptions
Client’s expectations regarding virtual services can greatly impact outcomes. Clients and counselors should continually work together to determine if the services are helpful. Multi-tasking during sessions, poor location selections, low quality internet connections, and frequent interruptions are factors which impact the value of telehealth services. To mitigate these risks, work with your provider to create realistic solutions or consider in-person alternatives.
Feel free to add any comments below of things to consider when seeking virtual counseling!