With Thriveworks, Online therapy is an effective alternative to in-person therapy services in which a client can speak to a Thriveworks therapist remotely via online video conferencing. Online sessions are just as effective as in-person treatment, but they can also provide added benefits like reduced travel time, saving money on transportation or childcare, and increased access to care.
Online therapy works much like traditional in-person therapy but takes place through secure video conferencing. Clients can attend Online therapy from any safe place they choose that has access to the internet, whether that be their home or another easily accessible place. Like in-person treatment, a therapist will work with their client to address their concerns, create goals, and establish an effective treatment plan.
Online therapy can last for a few months to years depending on the goals and symptoms of the client. The treatment process will be unique to each client and lend itself to their specific concerns, which means that the time it takes to treat them will always be different. Timing is also up to the client themselves; they are free to stop therapy whenever they please, especially if they feel they have reached their goals and addressed their concerns.
Our Thriveworks therapists at Thriveworks in Portage, MI accept most major forms of insurance, which means that many of our clients only pay $0-$50 co-pay per session. However, there are also self-pay options that sit around $200 per session, depending on the service and location, for those who are out-of-network.
How does online or telehealth counseling work?
Many people are exploring the increased use of technology in order to receive services via the internet. We talk to many clients who are interested in online counseling and are not sure what to expect. At Thriveworks Counseling in Portage, we are able to provide counseling telehealth services for a large range of conditions and issues. Our local clinicians live and work in Southwest Michigan, but are able to see clients from all over the state in the comfort of their own homes, car, office or wherever else clients are comfortable receiving services.
Is my condition appropriate for telehealth?
In preparation for your first appointment, your clinician will review your intake form and may contact you before your first appointment if they think you may need a different level of care. Not all diagnoses and conditions are appropriate for telehealth counseling, so as part of the evaluation process your therapist will help determine that with you.
Before your first appointment, your therapist will email you a link for your session. To join the session, follow the instructions on the email. Also contained in that email are troubleshooting suggestions and a ‘test’ meeting, please test out your system so you are able to have your session without technological interruptions.
It may also be a good idea to use a pair of headphones with your device to help protect your privacy. Choosing the location for your session could also be important, make sure you cannot be overheard by others in your chosen location.
During your first session, your therapist is going to want to review your intake form with you, talk with you about informed consent and then get an understanding of your goals and challenges. Before you sign off, your therapist will set out several future appointments so you have a consistent schedule.
Telehealth counseling has been available for quite a while, but due to the rise in available technology and concerns about viral outbreaks, it is becoming more and more popular. At Thriveworks Counseling in Portage, we are prepared to serve you as a telehealth provider. Give us a call today or request an appointment online by clicking on the ‘book now’ button under the therapists bio.
*Please note that this service is currently limited to counseling services, medication management and court ordered services are not available via telehealth at this time.
Thriveworks has some great articles and resources for learning more about online counseling.