Telehealth and virtual therapy are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different connotations. Telehealth broadly refers to the use of technology to deliver a range of health services remotely, including consultations, diagnoses, and follow-ups.

Virtual or online therapy, a subset of telehealth, specifically refers to the mental health care services delivered online, often via secure video platforms like Zoom or Spruce. While telehealth can include various types of care such as remote monitoring or medical consultations, virtual psychotherapy focuses primarily on psychological support and relief of mental health symptoms. Some therapists may also offer telephone sessions, particularly for initial consultations or specific needs.

Often, clients ask is online therapy effective and how does online therapy work as compared to traditional therapy? Research indicates that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for various issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Online therapy offers benefits such as increased accessibility, convenience, and flexibility, allowing clients to engage in therapy from the comfort of their own homes. Since online therapy really only requires a phone and an internet connection, telehealth is also widely accessible for most clients.

Studies suggest that during online therapy sessions, the quality of the therapeutic relationship and the effectiveness of treatment are comparable to face-to-face interactions. Moreover, online therapy can reduce barriers like travel time and availability, making it easier for individuals to maintain consistent treatment.

Trauma therapy can be highly effective in a virtual setting. Research and clinical practice have shown that online therapy can provide substantial support for individuals dealing with trauma, offering the same therapeutic techniques and strategies as in-person sessions.

Therapists use secure video platforms to conduct sessions for online therapy which can include trauma-focused approaches like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

There are several resources for free or low-cost online therapy. Websites Open Path Collective offer reduced rates for clients who have financial hardship and no insurance coverage that make them unable to afford a full therapist rate. Many universities and community organizations also provide free or reduced-cost therapy sessions through student counseling centers or community clinics.

The good news is that most insurance plans cover online therapy similarly to in person therapy. At Madison Square Psychotherapy, we offer out-of-network billing, and can provide superbills to help you get reimbursed for a percentage of your online therapy costs if you do have coverage. Online therapy can also sometimes be more affordable by minimizing the time and cost of commuting.