All About Teletherapy

 Teletherapy involves providing mental health services remotely through secure, high-quality video conferencing. In each session, the client and their licensed therapist are able to see, hear, and communicate with one another in real time using a HIPAA-compliant platform designed to protect client confidentiality. 

 Using a secure online system, therapists connect with clients through an internet connection, a web portal, and real-time two-way video. The therapeutic work mirrors what would take place in a traditional, in-person setting, utilizing established therapy methods. Sessions may include hands-on activities, shared exercises through the platform, and even interactive games — a particularly effective approach for engaging children and involving parents in the therapeutic process. 

Is Teletherapy Private?
Just like in-person therapy, teletherapy sessions are protected by strict ethical standards and privacy laws. Therapists are required to maintain confidentiality and must conduct their sessions from a secure, private location. Sessions are not recorded or shared unless the client has given explicit, written consent. Clients are also encouraged to find a private, quiet space on their end to protect their confidentiality during the session.

In fact, some professionals believe that teletherapy can offer even greater privacy compared to traditional office visits, as it eliminates the chance of encountering someone you know in a waiting room or clinic setting.

At Olson Family Counseling, we use specialized, encrypted telehealth software designed to ensure maximum privacy and security. Any telehealth platform we use is fully compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the federal law that protects the confidentiality and security of personal health information, including mental health records.

Shorter Wait Times and No Waiting Rooms
Teletherapy offers greater flexibility, which often means quicker access to therapists — whether you're seeking urgent support or scheduling your first session. Gone are the days of taking time off work, battling traffic, arranging childcare, or sitting in a crowded waiting room. Now, you can simply grab a coffee, step into a private space, attend your therapy session, and quickly transition back to your daily routine. This ease and convenience removes many of the traditional barriers to seeking counseling.

A More Comfortable, Less Stressful Environment
For many, the anxiety of waiting for a doctor’s appointment can mirror the nerves felt before a therapy session. Visiting an unfamiliar office can add to that stress. With teletherapy, clients can ease into the counseling process from the familiarity and comfort of their own home, making the experience less intimidating and more approachable.

Technology is Engaging for Kids
While opinions vary about children's use of technology, video interaction often captures their attention in a positive way. Many kids are naturally drawn to online engagement, making teletherapy feel fun and familiar. Being in a comfortable, known environment — instead of a new office with new people — helps children feel at ease, leading to more open and productive therapy sessions.

Expanded Access to Providers
Teletherapy opens doors for those who might otherwise face barriers to mental health services. Individuals living in rural areas no longer have to travel long distances for care. Clients who are home sick can still keep their appointments and maintain their mental health support. Thanks to teletherapy, access to quality care has expanded dramatically, bringing therapy directly to wherever you are.