What is online or web-based therapy?
Online therapy works in the same way as in-office therapy, but is done online, similar to a Skype or FaceTime conversation. Clients are able to have sessions from home, from work, or any other convenient location. I meet with clients using the HIPAA-compliant secure video platform from my home office.
What are the advantages of online therapy?
Online therapy allows the client to work with me from the comfort of home, or any private location of their choosing. For some clients, the screen provides an added layer of comfort that makes the sometimes challenging work of therapy a little easier. Online therapy also allows some flexibility in scheduling, which can be a benefit to clients who are seeking therapy sessions outside of office hours.
Online therapy also creates the unique opportunity to work with me specifically, even if we are not located in the same area. Should my areas of expertise and treatment approach meet the client’s unique needs, online therapy allows us to work together without the constraints of location! I am licensed in Pennsylvania & Washington DC.
Who benefits from online therapy?
Online therapy is a great option for clients that travel for work, for college students that go home during the summertime and do not want a break in their sessions, and for anyone with a challenging day-to-day schedule. It is an excellent choice for clients seeking a therapist with a particular specialty that they are unable to find support for locally. For some clients, online therapy makes the process of therapy a little bit easier.
Is online therapy for everybody?
No. For some clients with more complex symptoms or safety concerns, having a local therapist that is readily available is important to insure safety in case of crisis or the need for a higher level of care. Online therapy is also a challenge for clients that do not have access to a private, quiet space to be “in session” for the hour, or for those that do not have adequate internet connectivity.
Can I use my insurance to meet with you?
I do not accept insurance. However, many clients have found success submitting receipts to their insurance companies to receive out-of-network benefits. I am happy to provide clients with required paperwork necessary to request reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider for details on your benefits.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of the therapy process. Our work together requires a high degree of trust with sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere in our sessions. By law, all therapists are required to provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what we discuss in session will not be shared with anyone unless some specific exceptions apply:
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Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children or vulnerable adults must be reported to the authorities, including the Department of Children's Services, Adult Protective Services and/or law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
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If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or another person.