IN-PERSON VS. TELEHEALTH
When you talk about psychotherapy, the image that people recall is traditional in-person sessions, where the client sits on a comfy couch, in a relaxing office. While traditional in-person therapy is still the most predominate way that people access therapeutic services, telehealth is growing popularity and changing the way people can access therapy. Telehealth is a viable and convenient way to get help and support and below is some information you should consider when deciding which option that is best for you.
Telehealth makes it possible for people to access therapeutic services in a way that has not been possible before, and changes to many insurance carrier policies over the past few years may make telehealth services a covered service under your policy.
So whether it’s your busy schedule, limited access to transportation, a medical condition, living in a remote area, feeling more comfortable in your own home or something else entirely, telehealth might be a good option for you.
If you are interested in telehealth, please feel free to contact us and we would be happy to check your insurance coverage to see if telehealth sessions are covered under your policy.
ADVANTAGES OF IN-PERSON THERAPY
In-person therapy offers many advantages, such as:
Trust: The therapeutic relationship is based on trust, which can sometimes be harder to build online.
Focus: Some people have an easier time focusing in their therapist’s office where they can eliminate work and home distractions.
Insurance Coverage: Insurance providers have historically been more likely to cover in-person therapy than online therapy. Regardless, it’s important to understand your insurance coverage and be aware of any out-of-pocket costs.*
No Reliance on Technology: In-person therapy means you don’t have to worry about technology affecting your session.
It’s also important to keep in mind that some mental health disorders may not be able to be treated in a virtual setting. For new or complex symptoms, direct treatment might be recommended.
*Changes over the past few years has made telehealth services, a covered service by many insurance carriers.
DISADVANTAGES OF IN-PERSON THERAPY
These are some reasons that someone may not prefer in-person therapy.
Flexibility: In-person treatment is not as flexible or convenient as teletherapy. Scheduling an in-person session can be difficult if appointment availability is limited.
Time: Getting to an appointment can take up a significant amount of time when accounting for travel. Some people may not have this time, especially if appointments fall during work hours.
Stigma: Those who are hesitant to try therapy may be uncomfortable visiting an office.
ADVANTAGES OF ONLINE THERAPY
Online therapy offers many advantages, such as:
Convenience: Attend therapy anytime, anywhere.
Accessibility: Teletherapy is ideal for those who can’t leave their homes or who live in remote areas where quality treatment is hard to find. As long as you are physically located in California during a session, you can work with a California licensed therapist.*
Cost: Online therapy can eliminate related costs of treatment, such as travel or childcare.
Reduced stigma: People can participate in therapy at home, where they may feel more comfortable discussing their mental health concerns.
Telehealth makes it’s easy to participate in treatment no matter where you are. Online counseling also enables you access therapy even if your therapist doesn’t live within driving distance, you are on bedrest, you just delivered a baby or you just can’t make it into the office.
*Due to licensing laws, all California licensed therapist are only able to see clients via telehealth, while clients are physically located in the state of California during their session.
DISADVANTAGES OF ONLINE THERAPY
While there are many advantages, there are some reasons that people may not want to participate in online therapy:
Cost: Online sessions are generally the same as in-person sessions. Additionally, insurance providers may not cover online treatment. Thought there have been many changes over the past few years that have made telehealth services, a covered service by many insurance carriers, so checking with your insurance provider is important.
Privacy: Teletherapy is held to the same HIPAA standards as in-person therapy, but understandably, people may have concerns about sharing information online.
Technology: A bad internet signal or poor phone reception can hinder the therapeutic experience.
Distractions: It can be harder to focus and eliminate at-home distractions.