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Video Therapy
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. We find that Teletherapy sessions are most often just as effective as in-person sessions, and good progress can be made through teletherapy sessions. We are currently offering teletherapy to all clients (as appropriate) to help meet the evolving needs of the community due to the State of Emergency declared for Virginia in response to the coronavirus outbreak. 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). In addition, due to recent events, Medicare has temporally lifted restrictions on how teletherapy is conducted, in order to allow access to care for more individuals while social distancing efforts are in effect. 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). 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 |
There are a number of ways to make teletherapy fun and engaging for children. Children can create a comfortable, safe, private place in their house. Sometimes children enjoy making a space with pillows and blankets, their favorite stuffed toys, pets, or other objects that help to create a great therapy space. Children can also pack a special "therapy bag" that includes craft items, drawing materials, fidget toys or balls, games, or other activities. Talk with your therapist prior to the session, or in the first session, to discuss materials you can have available to facilitate a great therapy session for your child. You will also want to make sure the session takes place in a location where your child can have privacy, away from siblings or other family members. The child should have the same level of privacy they would have in a face-to-face session, depending on age. If you child is old enough to be alone during the session, make sure you are nearby and the child knows how to access you if needed. Also, make sure your child knows how to use the technology appropriately so that the session is not disrupted. Your therapist will work with you individually to tailor sessions to your family's needs. If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask!
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Is Teletherapy Effective? |
We were apprehensive about this transition, too! 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 most work being done in-person can be effectively continued through teletherapy (including EMDR and child/family therapy).
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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. When an individual is likely to need outside services (e.g., cases involving suicidal ideation, risk of violence toward others, substance abuse, or psychosis), teletherapy may not be an appropriate mode of service.
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| Telepsychology Informed Consent - Fillable Form |
