ONLINE COUNSELING & THERAPY | TELEHEALTH
Individual Counseling & Therapy, Couples Therapy, & Marriage Counseling
Columbia & Jefferson City, MO
What is Online Counseling & Telehealth?
We wanted to start this page with a question to clarify things for you, just in case. First and foremost, online counseling is frequently (if not almost always) referred to as “telehealth.” Just to make sure that we’re on the same page.
Secondly, online counseling/telehealth is just that–it’s counseling that’s done online. This is about 99.5% of the time done through a secure video platform. By secure, we mean something that’s trustworthy and able to maintain confidentiality and privacy, both of which are crucial for us (and for you, we assume).
There are some veeeeerryyyy rare instances where online counseling/telehealth is done through a phone call. That is hardcore an exception and only done in cases where video platforms aren’t working.
Online Counseling & Telehealth = Counseling!!
Online counseling/telehealth is, quite literally, one modality or way of doing counseling and therapy. And that’s just it. It’s a way for you to receive individual counseling & therapy or couples therapy & marriage counseling from one of the awesome clinicians on our team. No less, no more.
It’s not a fake approach to doing good work. It’s not a cheat. It’s not a way to avoid depth. It’s simply a way to engage in counseling with a trained professional who deeply cares about your growth as a client (and person).
Who is online counseling & telehealth geared towards?
Well, our short answer is anybody. I know, I know, I can hear you now: “laaaaame, give us a real answer!” That is for real, though. Anybody who wants to do online counseling/telehealth is who this is geared towards. In a more logistical way, it might be helpful for you to use this modality if you find yourself nodding along with any of the scenarios below.
You have a tight schedule that allows for very little flexibility.
Physical issues make commuting or finding comfort in an office challenging.
Your schedule involves a lot of in-state travel, making it hard to commit to consistent in-person appointments.
You feel more at ease interacting through a computer or phone screen.
You’re navigating medication that complicates travel.
You’re living under stay-at-home orders for infectious diseases, like COVID-19, with no current vaccine.
This list isn’t exhaustive; there are many reasons people may prefer online counseling over in-person visits.
In short, here’s why you should choose Telehealth:
Accessibility: Telehealth brings therapy to you, removing barriers like travel time and geographical constraints. No more long commutes–your sessions are just a click away!
Comfort: Engage in therapy from the comfort of your own space. Whether it’s your living room or your car, familiar surroundings can help you feel more relaxed and open.
Flexibility: Our telehealth services offer flexible scheduling, making it easier to fit mental health care into your busy life. Say goodbye to long wait times and hello to timely support.
Privacy and Security: Our telehealth platform is designed with your privacy in mind. We use secure methods to protect your personal information, ensuring a safe environment for your conversations.
But, wait… Will telehealth feel personal at all?
We recognize that some people worry that telehealth may feel impersonal, making it difficult to establish a genuine rapport with their therapist. It’s completely natural to have these concerns, but we want to assure you that building a strong therapeutic relationship online is not only possible but can be incredibly effective.
Personalized Interactions: Our therapists are trained to create a welcoming and supportive environment, regardless of the medium. Through attentive listening, empathic responses, and open communication, they ensure that you feel heard and valued during each session.
Face-to-Face Engagement: Virtual sessions facilitate eye contact and nonverbal cues that are essential for meaningful communication. Video calls allow you to see your therapist's expressions and reactions, fostering a sense of connection that is often comparable to in-person meetings.
Individualized Approach: Every client is unique, and our therapists tailor their strategies based on your specific needs and preferences. This personalized attention strengthens the therapeutic alliance, whether you’re meeting in person or online.
Overcoming Physical Barriers: For many, telehealth eliminates anxieties related to in-person interactions, such as travel stress or waiting rooms. This ease can lead to more genuine interactions, allowing clients to feel more comfortable and open from the start.
Convenient Follow-ups: Telehealth makes it easier for clients to attend appointments consistently. Regular check-ins enhance the therapist-client relationship, providing continuity and trust that can strengthen over time.
Proven Outcomes: Research has shown that the quality of the therapeutic relationship in telehealth is often equivalent to traditional face-to-face counseling, with many clients reporting high satisfaction levels. Many have found that the flexibility and comfort of telehealth actually contribute to a deeper, more meaningful connection.
We know that a successful therapeutic relationship can flourish in a virtual setting. Our team is dedicated to helping you feel comfortable and supported, ensuring that your journey to mental wellness is as personal and effective as possible.
How should I prepare for my online counseling/telehealth?
Easy. Emotionally and mentally, you’d prepare in the exact same way you’d prepare for an in-person session. Get into a headspace of sharing, processing, piecing together the puzzle pieces of your life, and getting feedback (i.e., questions, paraphrasing, validation) from your clinician.
Physically, though? It does look a little bit different. On one hand, you don’t have to prepare for any car time, which can be a bonus. On the other hand, you need to make sure that you’ve got a good internet connection with a computer or a space where you can access your phone to use the telehealth feature in our patient portal, TherapyPortal. We’d also recommend headphones and a private space.
I’ve got more questions about online counseling/telehealth.
That’s fine, too! You can read our telehealth faqs page. Please note that we offer a 30 minute consultation if you are on the fence about telehealth and would like to explore this option further. During your consultation, you will be able to experience how it feels to connect with your therapist online and ask them any questions you may have. Consultations will be charged at the same rate as a therapy session.
I’ve got no questions. I just want to know how to start!
Also fine! Please submit a contact form by clicking the button below. We look forward to hearing from you!