Teletherapy

What Is teletherapy?

Teletherapy also known as online therapy, e-therapy, or online counseling is a relatively new development in mental health in which a therapist provides psychotherapy or counseling services and support over the Internet. Teletherapy can take place online via encrypted secure video conferencing and online chat in real-time between the therapist and the client.

Why should you choose teletherapy?

Online therapy is a convenient, safe, and confidential option which allows you to connect with me and engage in the therapeutic process from the comfort of your own home. Teletherapy can take place online via encrypted, secure video conferencing in real-time. I utilize a web based online therapy platform which allows you to access therapy from anywhere that internet access is available. The online portal can be accessed from a PC or any mobile device giving you more flexibility and the ability to have access to sessions even if you are traveling.

Advantages to online therapy, including:

Increased access to counseling services for people with limited access to transportation
Increased access to therapy services for people with physical limitations that find traveling difficult.
Increased confidentiality by eliminating waiting for a session in a therapy office.
Increased access to treatment for those who travel allowing you access to therapy from anywhere in the world.
Increased flexibility and access to psychotherapy services

What can I receive teletherapy for?

Teletherapy Services can address a variety of issues, including:

Behavioral health conditions such as anxiety, and depression
Substance use disorders, gambling, and other addictions
Relationship conflict and other family issues
Coping with medical conditions
Grief and loss
Stress and anger management
Trauma

Is teletherapy appropriate for all situations?

Teletherapy is suitable for most situations. The appropriateness of teletherapy for your situation is discussed as a part of the scheduling process and during your initial appointment with me

How does teletherapy work?

I use a HIPAA-compliant encrypted and confidential web based video conferencing platform which allows you to sign into an online waiting room at the time of your appointment. Once I see that you are online, I will initiate your session. All communication takes place through a confidential private and secure web portal allowing us to communicate through safe and encrypted video, and instant message sessions while keeping sensitive information private and protected.

Is teletherapy effective?

Online therapy is just as effective (and sometimes more effective) as traditional face-to-face psychotherapy. Teletherapy has been found to be a safe and effective way to provide psychotherapy services. Research indicates that clients experience a reduction of symptoms, and sometimes better outcomes from online support, as than with traditional in-person therapy.

Is teletherapy covered by insurance?

Insurance providers cover online therapy just as they would traditional in person therapy sessions. You can call your insurance company directly to determine whether your specific policy covers online therapy session. As a courtesy, I would be happy to contact your insurance to obtain your eligibility and benefits.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, credit card, debit card insurance and paypal.

What equipment will I need?

You will need one of these:

A computer with a webcam and internet access, or
A mobile device or tablet with a webcam and internet access. When you schedule your first session, I will provide you with login instructions and will help you test your set up to ensure that you have a working connection.

How do I test my online video connection?

I use an online platform called doxyme. To test your connection click the “Teletherapy login” link in the menu and follow the prompts. If you have any problems connecting feel free to contact me at 919-824-8756 and I will walk you through it.

Who do I call after hours if I have an emergency?

If you are having an after hours emergency you can call the after hours crisis number which will be provided to you at your intake session. If you are feeling like harming yourself, or another person you should call the Durham Recovery Response Center at 1-800-510-9132. If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency you should call 911 or admit yourself to a hospital immediately.

Contact me for a free 15 minute consultation

Teia Cobb, MS, LPC, LCAS

I offer a free 15 minute video consultation so you can get a feel for what a session would be like. Please call or email me to request your free sessionand support over the Internet. Teletherapy can take place online via encrypted secure video conferencing in real-time.