Telehealth – Get Started

Online Sessions

This section is to help everyone understand a few points related to online video sessions.

We have been doing online sessions with people for many years.

Some people like it more than others.

There are challenges and positives that we will discuss on this page.

Also, we will briefly describe how to sign up and provide a link to our provider that will give you more information.

A brief history of counseling via online sessions or telehealth (TH).

Years ago, when people started TH it was uncharted territory. Counselors were using skype and working with people across state lines. Issues began to arise. States began requiring licensing of providers in the state the client was sitting in during the time of the session. HIPAA rules required the video platform have a Business Agreement with the provider, of which many platforms such as skype did not provide. Insurance companies would not pay for services. Currently, companies have stepped up and provided HIPAA compliant platforms, and insurance companies are beginning to reimburse for services.

Challenges of TH:

• Internet service. You must have a reliable internet connection with enough bandwidth for video and audio. Being wired directly to your internet is beneficial, though not always practical or required.
• Privacy. Your environment may not be as confidential as our office. We recommend you use a headset with a microphone and find a space away from individuals in your home. Some people use their car. Of course, if the people in your home don’t know you are seeing a counselor, for some, explaining your whereabouts for an hour may be problematic.
• Lack of face to face /non-verbal interaction. Doing TH is a different experience than face to face. Many people adapt to it and continue. Other people adapt yet prefer face to face.
• One issue that you will not find here is a lack of credentials. We are licensed in Virginia. We only see people who are in the state of Virginia. John can also see people in NC as he is licensed there as well.  
• Security – What can I say – the internet is the internet. While we do what we can to provide security, we cannot absolutely say that every part of the connection is secure.

Positives of TH

• Convenience – you don’t need to travel to and from the office or arrange for a babysitter.
• Confidentiality – Some people don’t like walking into a counseling office.
• Accessibility – Services can be accessed by a wide range of people.
• Comfortability – Some people prefer the comfort of their homes.

How to get started: