How to choose if Virtual Counseling ("Telehealth") or ​In-Person counseling is best for you:

Telehealth vs In-Person Therapy

Covid-19 has thrown us all for such a loop. We have had to adjust and adjust again. Of all the things we have had to postpone or give up, access to therapy is the last thing that needs to go! One thing Covid taught us is that Telehealth is just as effective as in-person therapy and my clients find the flexibility incredibly helpful with their busy schedules.

Many of my clients bounce back and forth between in-person sessions and telehealth, just depending on how busy they are that week. It is important to do what feels best for you. Here are some things to consider for both options:

Telehealth/Virtual Counseling

​Most therapists found themselves in a position of being thrown into the Telehealth world during the pandemic without much notice. I was immediately surprised to see how quickly my clients adjusted to it and how much progress they continued to make! 

Online sessions are done through a HIPAA compliant platform (I use Theranest). Before your first session I will send you a link to create an account where you can complete all your New Client paperwork (e-signature makes it very easy so no printing, scanning, or returning documents). Each session you will log into that same account and you will see a small camera icon to click into the secure meeting. In no time the camera will open and we will be connected! If you aren't good with computers, no worries. I will be there to walk you though it over the phone if we need to.

I encourage my clients to find a quiet, private place (sometimes that's a closet or even the car!) so that we can talk openly.

Some of the benefits of Telehealth are:
  • More flexible scheduling (many clients can fit therapy in on their lunch breaks!)
  • Comfort of your own home
  • Easier to schedule emergency/last minute sessions
If you have any reservations about doing online counseling- I encourage you to reach out and let's talk before you count it out!

In-Person Counseling

Traditionally, counseling is held in my comfy office in Alpharetta, GA (pictured below). Feel free to bring your drink or snack with you. I have coffee and hot tea available and I truly try to make this as relaxing of an environment as I can. I'm even known to encourage stretching out under a fuzzy blanket if you are feeling especially tense during session!

In order to do my best to keep everyone safe during Covid-19 Pandemic, I've put the following policies in place:
  • If you have been diagnosed with Covid-19, we will need to utilize Telehealth (or reschedule our appointments) until you have been fever free for 10 days.
  • If you have been directly exposed to someone positive or are experiencing symptoms and have not been tested yourself, I ask that we switch to Telehealth for 10 days.
  • I am not requiring masks during session, but will gladly wear one upon request if that makes you feel more comfortable.
  • Hand sanitizer is available in my office.
  • I am sanitizing the office between clients as best as I can. 
  • I will notify you if I am exposed, test positive, or experience symptoms myself and we can reschedule or use Telehealth. 

Empower Counseling & Consulting Alpharetta, GA

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