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TeleTherapy
Teletherapy, also referred to as Video Therapy, Telehealth or Telepsychology, is a psychotherapy service conducted through a secure, HIPAA compliant platform. Teletherapy is a great alternative when in-person sessions are not feasible, or when time or logistical constraints make in-person sessions difficult to attend. We find that Teletherapy sessions can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many clients, and good progress can be made through teletherapy sessions. We are currently offering teletherapy sessions to clients for whom this type of therapy is likely to be as effective as in-person. So... grab your coffee and cuddle up in your favorite blanket for your next therapy session!
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Does Insurance cover teletherapy? |
In Virginia it is required that private insurances allow for telehealth services (although certain restrictions may apply depending on the plan). As always, we recommend confirming this directly with your insurance company. Please ask if they cover CPT codes 90791 (Intake Session), 90834 and 90837 (Therapy Sessions) with the modifier GT or 95, and Location Code "02."
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What should I do to make the most of my session? |
When you prepare to do teletherapy, please make sure that you have a quiet, confidential place to join the session. It is preferred to use a computer or laptop, although a phone or tablet will work, too. Many people prefer headphones for improved sound and privacy. Just as in your in-person sessions, you and your therapist should be the only people in the room (unless you have decided to include others in your therapy session, with your therapists consent). Do not record sessions. Please make sure that you use a secure, password protected network. Although you can be anywhere in the state of Virginia for your teletherapy session(s), our therapists generally can NOT provide therapy to anyone outside the state of Virginia due to licensing restrictions. Prior to your first teletherapy session, you must thoroughly read the below "Teletherapy Consent." Your therapist will also go over this in the first teletherapy session.
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How to do a video session: |
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Teletherapy with Children and adolescents |
In general, we recommend in-person therapy for children under the age of 10. This is because children are often better able to stay engaged, to develop relationships, and to participate actively in therapy when in-person. There are some situations in which we will provide virtual therapy for children, but this will be determined on a case-by-case basis depending on your child's unique needs. Virtual therapy can be appropriate, for example, to use periodically when the therapist or child are unable to attend in-person session (e.g., when sick or quarantined) in order to minimize disruptions to treatment. It can also be ideal when environmental factors make in-person sessions difficult (like during pandemics, or when children cannot come into the office).
For children ages 10-17, virtual sessions may be appropriate. Our priority is to provide the best care possible for your child/adolescent. We will recommend virtual therapy only if we feel that this will be as effective or more effective (usually due to increasing access to care) than in-person sessions. Tips for Making teletherapy productive for children and adolescents:
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Is Teletherapy Effective? |
Overall, the evidence suggests that teletherapy is an effective mode of therapy (click here for additional info). We have been very pleasantly surprised to find that people tend to adapt quickly to teletherapy, and often enjoy being able to do therapy from the comfort of their own home. We find teletherapy to be highly effective, and that much work being done in-person can be effectively continued through teletherapy. In-person therapy will be the best fit for some individuals, and this should be determined on a case-by-case basis with your therapist.
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When is Teletherapy not Appropriate? |
Teletherapy can be used to address a wide range of concerns. However, there are certain times when it may not be feasible, or when in-person sessions will be more effective. For example, children with attention problems, children who are initially shy/reserved or have difficulty connecting to their therapist, or children who require play or other more interactive techniques may experience the most benefit from in-person sessions. With certain anxiety disorders, attending in-person sessions may be part of the treatment, and telehealth may unintentionally reinforce avoidance behavior (which makes anxiety worse). You should talk with your provider to determine whether virtual or in-person services are a better fit for you or your child.
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| Telepsychology Informed Consent - Fillable Form |
