TELEMENTAL HEALTH
Online Therapy in Georgia, GA
Online therapy in Georgia has greatly increased in popularity throughout the COVID-19 pandemic when many therapists only offered teletherapy services. This has opened up new conversations about the risks and benefits of online therapy, and you might be wondering if it is a good fit for you. We hope that the information below helps you make an informed decision about what therapeutic services you would most benefit from.
What is Online Therapy?
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Online therapy is any counseling service that is provided using a HIPAA compliant, secure platform. This can be done through platforms like Zoom or DoxyMe. Some online therapists offer sessions over the phone, and platforms like Better Help even have a texting option. The therapists here at Remain Connected primarily conduct all virtual therapy via video sessions.
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How to do Teletherapy
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At Remain Connected, online therapy is done through a platform called Simple Practice. Before your session, you will receive an appointment reminder with a link to your secure, private video conference room. All you have to do is click on the link at the time of your appointment and enter your name!
Is Online Therapy in Georgia a Good Fit?
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Virtual therapy is an excellent resource for many people for a variety of reasons. Teletherapy might be a good fit for you if:
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You do not have a lot of flexibility in your schedule. Cutting out the commute to an Atlanta therapist’s office can be a lifesaver when you need counseling, but life feels very hectic.
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The type of counseling you need is not available in your geographic area.
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Or the idea of meeting with someone in-person causes anxiety. For some with social anxiety, meeting over video can eliminate awkward encounters with people in the waiting room or stress associated with in-person interaction.
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There are times that online therapy is not the best fit. Some examples of cases where in-person therapy could be a better option:
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You do not have privacy at home.
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Or you do not have reliable internet access or phone service.
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Certain treatments for crises, like those for active suicidal thoughts or psychosis, are not as effective via online therapy and are better done in person.
BENEFITS
As you consider the pros and cons of online therapy in Georgia, here are some of the potential benefits.
Results
Research shows that clients receive the same benefits from online therapy as they do from in-person counseling for anxiety and depression.
Greater Flexibility
If you prefer a certain day, we can always meet online. If you haven't tried online sessions before, they are a breeze!
BENEFITS
Convenience
We can chat via a confidential, HIPAA-compliant video service and you don't have to sit through traffic, it's a win-win.
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More Therapists
A wider range of online therapists and specialties are available due to decreased geographic constraints.
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Additionally, the option to have online therapy can be used even when having primarily in-person meetings. For example, say you go out to your car to go to therapy in Atlanta and your battery is dead. Pivoting to a teletherapy session for the day allows you to get the counseling you need even when life throws a curveball at you. Online therapy also means that you could have a session while traveling, depending on the state laws regarding virtual therapy in the state you are traveling to.
EMDR and Online Therapy
EMDR is a therapeutic treatment for PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) that involves using eye movements and bilateral stimulation to decrease distress related to traumatic memories.
Throughout the pandemic, researchers began to evaluate the effectiveness of utilizing EMDR via online therapy.
They discovered that EMDR therapy was just as effective when used by a trained professional therapist via online platforms. Clients saw significant decreases in distress related to trauma and overall improved mental health.
If you are interested in beginning EMDR via online therapy, Mayra Richards and Danielle Flint at Remain Connected would be happy to consult with you!
HOW TO PREPARE FOR ONLINE THERAPY SESSIONS
The best way to prepare is to hit your five senses:
VISION
Surround yourself with something that you enjoy looking at. Try sitting by a window, looking at a plant, or a painting.
TOUCH
Sit in a comfy chair and have a blanket or comfortable pillow.
Find a place that feels peaceful to you.
TASTE
Grab coffee, tea, or water to sip while you talk to your therapist.
SMELL
Light a candle, diffuse oils, or wear your favorite perfume.
HEARING
Make sure you are in a quiet and private place. You can turn on a sound machine app outside your door to help with other noises surrounding you.
Ready to Begin Online Therapy in Georgia?
Therapy Services We Offer in Georgia
No matter where you are in Georgia, Remain Connected can support you through online therapy. To start getting support from one of our online therapists follow these steps:
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Reach out to make an appointment at Remain Connected
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Start meeting with an online therapist in Georgia
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Get mental health support that fits your schedule
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At our Atlanta area-based therapy practice we have several options to support your mental health. Including EMDR, anxiety treatment, depression treatment, and trauma therapy As well as marriage counseling, teen therapy, and therapy for stress and burnout. Additionally, to support your spiritual health our online therapists offer Christian counseling and pastoral care counseling. Contact us today to get started!
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