Amid the COVID-19 outbreak and social distancing recommendations, people are opting to (or being told to) stay at home.  This means that many things that we typically do face-to-face (such as doctor’s appointments, work meetings, and even social interactions) are now being done virtually from home.  Many therapists, including myself, are even temporarily taking therapy online in order to protect the safety and well-being of ourselves, the community, and people we work with.

So what is Teletherapy?

Teletherapy – also referred to as distance therapy, online counseling, or virtual therapy – simply refers to therapy that is conducted online via live video sessions on a secure platform similar to Facetime or Skype.  It’s easy to do – and aside from being done remotely – is no different than a traditional face-to-face session.

Benefits of Teletherapy

Research has shown that online counseling sessions can be just as effective as traditional in-office sessions.  In addition, they come along with a lot of added benefits for people who choose to go this route.  Here are a few of those benefits:

1. They can be done from almost anywhere! –  I’ve had sessions with clients from their car, office, and couch.
2. No need to drive  – Online counseling sessions eliminate the need to spend time or gas money traveling to or from the Therapist’s office.
3. Privacy – Since you pick the time and preferred location to conduct your session – and aren’t physically visiting your therapist’s office – you can ensure your own privacy.
4. Flexibility –  Since you can do therapy wherever you choose and don’t have to arrange for travel/transportation, you might find that you have increased options for when your session can be done.  Lunch break? why not?
5. It’s safe! For obvious reasons, doing online counseling sessions is probably safer right now than exposing yourself to the general public and other people who could get you sick.

How it works and what you need

Teletherapy is simple.  All you need is private/quiet space, an internet connection, and a phone or computer with audio and video capabilities.  A couple minutes before your session is scheduled to begin, we’ll send you a link to click on that will securely connect us.  It’s that easy! If you aren’t super “tech savvy”, we’ll patiently help make sure you’re all set up and ready to go.

If you’re considering giving online counseling a try, reach out by sending us a message or by calling or texting 727-258-5231.  We’ll briefly discuss your reasons for counseling, schedule an appointment if it sounds like we’ll be a good fit, and will send you a link to complete some basic information about yourself.

Float on Counseling’s physical office is located in the Carrollwood area of Tampa on North Dale Mabry Hwy. With discretion and extra precautions in place, we are still seeing some clients in the office when virtual counseling is not a viable option.

Joel Schmidt, MA, Licensed Mental Health Counselor