How Does Online Therapy Work? What To Expect From Your Frist Session

Sep 10

What Is Online Therapy?

Have you heard the terms “telehealth” or “virtual therapy” and wondered what they mean or what online therapy actually looks like?

Telehealth, online therapy, and virtual therapy all mean the same thing: mental health therapy appointments via video call as opposed to in-person appointments. The content and process of the sessions are essentially the same as if you were sitting in the therapist's office! We would go over basic information and discuss your presenting concerns in the same way we would if we were meeting in person.

So, How Does Online Therapy Work?

The first step is to schedule an appointment and provide some basic information, such as your name, contact information, and insurance information if you are planning to use insurance. Once the appointment is scheduled, you will receive a secure link that allows you to join the appointment when the time comes.

When your session time comes, you just need to find a private and comfortable location where you won’t be overheard and then click the link to join using a phone, tablet, or computer. From there, we can begin to talk, build skills, and work toward your goals!

Do I Have to Be at Home to Do Online Therapy?

No! This is one of the biggest benefits of virtual appointments. As long as you are in a safe and confidential environment where you have reliable internet, you can join from almost anywhere!

This can be your office at work, your childhood home, or even your car, as long as you are parked and in a safe spot. (Note that therapy will not happen if you are driving.)

What Are the Other Benefits of Online Therapy?

Another benefit of online therapy is that you don’t have any commute time! It can be hard for a lot of people to find time in their day for a therapy appointment. Maybe you get off work at 4 but wouldn’t be able to make it to the therapist's office until 4:15 or 4:30, forcing you to take time off to make it on time.

With online therapy, you can get off work and join immediately from your home, your office, or even your car in the parking lot. Online therapy also allows many people to join sessions over their lunch break so they do not have to take time off of work. As long as you are in a safe and private space, you can join from anywhere!

Telehealth also allows people in smaller, rural communities who may not have easy access to mental health care to participate in therapy and get the help they need. You can find access to specialized care that may not be available in your community, such as OCD and trauma care and Christian or faith-based counseling.

As long as you are in the state of Iowa, you can participate in therapy. Whether you are in Decorah or Sioux City, Dubuque or Des Moines, you can join from anywhere in Iowa!

Going to therapy for the first time can sometimes be overwhelming and scary, especially if you suffer from anxiety or trauma. Telehealth takes some of the scary pieces out of the equation, such as having to locate the office, find parking, and sit in a waiting room.

With online therapy, you can join from an environment where you feel comfortable and safe.

Is Online Therapy as Effective as In-Person Therapy?

Yes! For many people, online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy. Research has found that therapy delivered through videoconferencing can produce similar outcomes to traditional in-person therapy for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, trauma, and depression. (American Psychological Association)

While the setting is different, the heart of therapy remains the same. You and your therapist can still talk through what you're experiencing, identify patterns, develop practical coping skills, work toward your goals, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. The difference is that you are doing this through a secure video connection rather than sitting in the same office.

For some people, online therapy can even make it easier to engage in counseling. You don't have to drive to an appointment or rearrange your day around getting to an office. You can meet with your therapist from a private, comfortable space that works for you.

That said, online therapy isn't the best fit for everyone. Some people simply prefer meeting face-to-face, while others may benefit from the structure and environment of an in-person office. If you're unsure which option is right for you, that's something you can talk through with your therapist.

At Fullness of Joy Counseling, I offer both in-person and online therapy so that you can choose the format that best fits your needs. Online counseling is available throughout Iowa, making it possible to receive consistent support even if you don't live near a therapist's office.