If you’re sick of the computer screen, I offer some in-person therapy appointments in my Dallas office. Or if you’d rather see a therapist from the comfort of your home, we can do that too.
Prompted by the COVID pandemic, I have fully embraced video therapy (or “telepsychology”) as an ongoing option for those who prefer it to in-person appointments. Research has shown that therapy via videoconference can be as effective as in-person therapy. You can read more about telepsychology research and guidelines here.
This technology allows us to meet safely during the pandemic and beyond, as many people find it to be a convenient and accessible way to participate in therapy. If you worry that you don’t have a private space to talk from your home or office, I’m happy to brainstorm alternate options with you. Some people meet with me for video sessions from their parked cars or on walks around their neighborhoods. We can come up with a solution that works for you. Or, as always, you are also welcome in my Dallas office.
My practice offers:
- 24/7 online scheduling
- Private, online paperwork and billing
- Remote therapy using a HIPAA-compliant videoconference platform
- Text and email appointment reminders (optional)
Because video therapy is a relatively new thing, here are a few pointers about how to select the right video therapist for you:
Online credentials
Of course, we all need to be a little wary of online scams. It’s a good practice to check the credentials of anyone calling themselves a therapist. Although there are many kinds of therapists, a psychologist is someone who has received a doctoral degree in the field, completed post-doctoral supervised experience, and passed state and national licensing exams. A state board keeps track of every licensed mental health professional, which you can check here.
Jurisdictional rules
Psychologists are licensed by the home state in which they practice: in my case, Texas. In addition, I am credentialed to provide teletherapy across state lines to people in participating states.
Finding the best fit
Once you’ve verified that you’re dealing with a real professional who can legally work in your state, the next step is to see if you and that therapist might be a good fit. Here’s what I recommend:
- Read through the therapist’s website to get a feel for the type of work that they do and the tone they take with their patients.
- Request a brief phone call to make sure they offer the kinds of services you’re looking for.
- Have a consultation appointment to see how comfortable you are talking with the therapist. In my practice, there is no charge for the consultation appointment if you decide that you don’t want to continue therapy with me.