Online Counseling
Focusing on relationship issues. Addressing sexual dysfunction. Improving self-confidence and navigating life transitions. The reasons why people reach out to a therapist are numerous. As are the reasons why people don’t.
For the past 2 years during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also learned that with telehealth, or online therapy, now available to our clients in Chicago and throughout Illinois, speaking with a therapist online with the added layer of a screen may help mitigate anxiety related to discussing such vulnerable topics. Additionally, there has been research that’s found that online therapy can be as or even more effective than traditional in-person therapy.
We understand the barriers that prevent some of us from taking that first step and scheduling an in-person visit with a therapist.
Telehealth has many benefits
Increased access to mental health care for folks with disabilities.
For those who live in remote areas or for those who have caregiver or work-related responsibilities and can’t find time to commute to a therapist appointment, you can join your session from anywhere in Illinois.
Increased privacy
The thought of entering a therapist’s waiting room or office can be anxiety-provoking for some of us. Instead, you can be at home or wherever you feel most comfortable during your session and can avoid some of the distractions that you might encounter during in-person therapy. Another reason why telehealth could be the best fit for you is that most insurance plans cover it – you can ask your therapist to verify your benefits.
How does telehealth work?
Even for those of us who do not consider ourselves tech-savvy, joining a telehealth session is actually quite simple. All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a quality internet connection. You will receive an invitation from your therapist to join a secure video conferencing session, and when it’s time for your session to begin you just log on to connect.
If there are ever any connection issues, you can always reach out to your therapist for assistance. We are here to help you navigate telehealth and make this process as easy as possible.
If turning off the camera feels more comfortable or if a phone session is your preference, we will work with you to find the best modality of therapy.
Do you have privacy concerns with telehealth?
We should all be careful when it comes to sharing personal information online, but rest assured, telehealth has been proven to be safe. The video platform Soleil uses for its online therapy is tied in with SimplePractice, an electronic healthcare record system that “satisfies both HITRUST and HIPAA security requirements.” The result? Your private information remains private.
How Do You Get Started?
If you’d like to learn more about online counseling and whether it would be the best fit given your situation, or if you’re ready to set up your first telehealth session with us for individual or couples therapy, please contact Soleil Psychotherapy.