Benefits of Teletherapy for Your Mental Health
Have you ever thought about attending therapy for your mental health, but wondered how you would fit it into your schedule? Do you worry about who you might encounter in an office setting? Do you wish you could participate in therapy from the comfort of your own home? Are you having difficulty finding a therapist in your area?
If so, teletherapy might be the solution you’re looking for. Our virtual appointments offer convenient, flexible, and confidential access to mental health care, making it easier than ever to get the support you need—no matter your location within North Carolina or the complexity of your schedule. Keep reading to discover more about online therapy and to see if it is the right fit for you.
What is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy has become increasingly popular among both clients and clinicians. This form of therapeutic intervention is highly accommodating, offering significantly greater convenience for individuals who face transportation challenges or have time constraints due to work, school, family responsibilities, or being out of town. By eliminating the need for travel, virtual appointments make it much easier to fit appointments into one’s schedule. Sessions are also more flexible, as clinicians may be available at times that would otherwise be difficult, thanks to the ease of technology.
Additionally, online appointments allow clients to receive care from the comfort of their own homes. For those who feel a stigma attached to seeking mental health care, participating in therapy remotely can help reduce these concerns, since clients aren’t required to visit a physical office. This is especially beneficial in rural communities, where maintaining confidentiality can be challenging and individuals may worry about encounters with acquaintances in waiting rooms. This method of therapy helps ensure privacy, making mental health services more accessible and comfortable for a wider range of people.?
If you have additional question about mental health support or behavioral health services, be sure to check out our FAQ page!
How Are Virtual Appointments Conducted?
Our online visits are typically conducted via telephone, telehealth platforms, or videoconferencing. It is essential that these sessions are conducted through HIPAA-compliant platforms to ensure clients’ private health information remains secure.
Most of our clients find the teletherapy experience to be very similar to in-office sessions. The length of appointments and the therapeutic interventions used generally remain the same. For a positive experience, clients should ensure their internet or phone connection is stable and free from technological issues. It is also important to find a private space, such as a room, car, or office, where you can speak freely without interruptions and maintain confidentiality. Keeping a notebook nearby can help you jot down questions or important information discussed during the session.
Is Teletherapy for Everyone?
Teletherapy is not suitable for everyone. For individuals with more complex diagnoses—such as schizophrenia or other high-need conditions that require medication management and careful monitoring—in-person appointments may be necessary. In these cases, in-office sessions can help mitigate the potential negative impacts of technology and enable closer observation. Telehealth may become an option once both the clinician and client agree that a sufficient level of stability has been achieved.?
Who Can Benefit From Virtual Appointments?
At Tar Heel Human Services, we are excited to offer virtual therapy appointments to residents throughout North Carolina. Here is a short list of those who may benefit from teletherapy:
- Busy professionals or parents with tight schedules
- College students or young adults away from home
- People in rural or underserved areas
- Anyone who prefers privacy, convenience, or flexibility
- Individuals managing anxiety, depression, life stress, or relationship issues
What are Some Challenges with Teletherapy?
Here are some challenges associated with online therapy. Some clients may find it harder to feel connected or engaged with their clinician due to the absence of in-person interaction. Others might struggle to find a quiet, private space with a reliable internet or phone connection, which is necessary for effective teletherapy. Additionally, individuals who are uncomfortable with technology or find it difficult to adapt to new platforms may experience extra stress or frustration when participating in online therapy.
How do I Schedule a Virtual Session?
Whether you are a busy professional, a student away at school, or prefer appointments from the comfort of your own home, our Teletherapy Services can help. If you live in North Carolina, you can schedule a virtual therapy appointment today! Feel free to give us a call for more information or to be connected with one of our mental health therapist. You can also use the button below to submit your appointment request.
Written by: Michelle Tanner, MSW, LCSW