Myth Busting- Common Misconceptions about Online Therapy

Since the pandemic, mental health services have become even more accessible through the wider use of virtual therapy. But many people have misconceptions about online therapy. Let’s go through these myths one by one and address some of the questions you may have about receiving therapy online.

1. Myth: Insurance will not cover virtual therapy.

Whereas this may have been true in the past, today most insurance providers cover virtual therapy. Always confirm with your insurance provider. The cost of in-person therapy is the same as the cost of virtual therapy.

Learn more about using insurance to pay for therapy by watching this quick video.

2. Myth: Virtual therapy is less effective than in-person therapy.

Although attending therapy virtually vs. in-person provides a different experience, the quality and effectiveness is not compromised. You will still be meeting with a highly trained and experienced psychotherapist. You are the same person receiving the therapy, and the therapist is the same person providing the therapy; thus your experience will not be diminished.

3. Myth: My confidentiality will not be protected through online therapy.

While it is true that a therapy office can provide a unique amount of confidentiality, most therapists use secure networks and platforms to meet their clients virtually, where your privacy and anonymity will be 100% protected, and your private information will be kept hidden. Additionally, most therapists have designated private work spaces in their homes and take extra measures to ensure that privacy is kept.

4. Myth: Online Therapy is only for minor issues, and would not apply to higher risk clients.

This is not always true. Many of the clients that we see virtually can be higher risk or experiencing suicidal ideation, or may self-harm. Extra measures will be taken to keep the client safe and protected. Those measures include creating and following a safety plan, treatment coordination with other providers (i.e. psychiatrist, physician), and frequent follow-ups and check-ins. If what you are presenting with is more appropriate for in-person sessions the therapist will communicate that and help connect you with resources.

5. Myth: I won’t be able to connect with my online therapist the same way I would be able to connect in-person.

This is an understandable concern, as therapy is extremely relational and functions off of the basis that you will form a deep connection with your therapist. That relationship is still possible virtually. Your therapist will show up as present, connected, and caring– regardless of the medium. The pandemic has proven to us that one can still experience the power and benefit of therapy from the comfort of their home.

Interested in exploring virtual therapy? Contact us today for a free consultation.

Want to learn more about teletherapy? Read our blog, “Teletherapy: Common Questions Answered“.