What is Telehealth / Tele-Therapy / Online Therapy

Telehealth refers to any healthcare service provided over the phone, email, or live chat. I meet with all of my clients via Telehealth and I can work with anyone located in the States of California and Connecticut, based on state licensing regulations. Online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy, without the commute or hassle of parking. To fully benefit from online therapy

1. you should feel comfortable working with me

2. your goals should overlap with my strengths as a therapist.

Telehealth for Children & Adolescents

Working as a school counselor during COVID-19 taught me that online therapy can create the “distance” children often need to open up emotionally. To prepare for telehealth sessions, I work with each family to put together a therapy “basket” of tools that we’ll use in session. I recommend that families have construction paper, tissue paper, glue sticks, and 2-3 different kinds of sensory toys (in total $15-20 depending on the sensory toys). The beauty of telehealth is that this coping tool kit is something your child will get to use in therapy and throughout the week at home.

Telehealth Requirements

• Clients must have access to a computer, tablet, or phone with an internal or external microphone and camera

• Clients benefit from access to a high speed internet connection

• Clients benefit from a quiet, private place to meet without interruption (e.g. a parked car, the bathroom, we can absolutely get creative!)

Telehealth Recommendations

• Use the latest version of your web browser

• Have your computer, phone, or tablet charged or have the charger nearby and ready to plug in

• Log on 5 minutes early to check your audio and camera

• Use headphones to add an extra layer of privacy

• Have your computer face a wall so that if someone walks in, they won’t see what you’re up to

• Consider using a code word or phrase with your therapist to note that someone has walked into the room (e.g. “I’m really craving Papaya today!”)