Therapy from the comfort of your own home
By Natalie Kraft MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS
When I look back to my start in telehealth, I like to say that I started doing online therapy “before it was cool!” Before the infamous pandemic shutdowns, a friend of mine asked if I wanted to see some clients through her new online practice. Rarely one to turn down an opportunity, I agreed, but I remember worrying that there might be things that could be missed over a screen. “What if they’re not wearing pants under the camera?!,” I asked jokingly. It soon became apparent though, that online therapy had a lot of great benefits and could be just as effective as in-person!
If you’re new to online therapy, you might be wondering what it’s like. Here’s what to expect when you begin virtual sessions.
1. Easy Scheduling and Intake Process- and it’s all environmentally friendly!
Most practices, including ours, offer a free initial phone consultation to see if we’re the right fit. We’ll talk briefly about what you’re looking for and explain how we work.
If you decide to move forward, we’ll send:
- A secure online intake form
- Consent and privacy documents to be signed electronically
- A secure link to your first appointment
We’re happy to go paperless and save some trees with the above (though you’re welcome to print for your own records, if you’d like). Our therapists and clients also reduce their gas consumption as there’s no drive to an office!
2. Private, Secure Video Sessions
As stated above, you’ll receive a link before each session. With one click, you’ll be connected to your therapist in a secure, HIPAA-compliant video room.
What you’ll need:
- A quiet, private space (your room, car, or anywhere you’re comfortable)
- A computer (desktop or laptop), tablet, or smartphone.
- Decent internet/Wi-Fi or data connection
Many people find comfort in being able to participate in therapy from a familiar location. Not having to attend in person can also allow for an extra layer of privacy. Beyond that, it can make it so much easier as you won’t need to worry about adding travel time, hitting traffic, etc.
3. Sessions
Just as with in-person, early on, online appointments are all about:
- Exploring what brings you to therapy
- Getting to know one another
- Identifying strengths and goals
- Creating a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs
Your therapist will be asking a lot of questions, and you’re welcome to ask some too! From there, online therapy can look a lot like in-person as you will work with your therapist to talk through your stressors, pains, joys, goals, and whatever else is important to you.
4. Real Skills. Real Tools. Real Change.
Through modalities including but not limited to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we help clients work to learn how to regulate emotions, improve relationships, build resilience, and set and reach personal goals. Being online allows us to use a variety of additional tools including:
- Sharing PDF worksheets
- Showing educational videos
- Participating in online therapeutic activities together
- Connecting through apps
Through the above, we use technology to further enhance the therapeutic experience for you.
Is Online Therapy Effective?
Yes! Research shows that telehealth is just as effective as in-person therapy for many people. And for some, it’s even more effective, because it removes barriers like travel, parking, or other scheduling stress. Whether you’re busy, overwhelmed, or just prefer the comfort of your own space, online therapy can be a flexible and powerful way to get support. At Sage Sea DBT, we offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions to clients across New Jersey and Florida (more states coming soon!).
Ready to Give Online Therapy a Try? Call us today to schedule a free consultation!
Sage Sea DBT 