Breaking Down Barriers
Sometimes called distance therapy or video therapy, this means of offering mental health services helps eliminate a couple of potential barriers to attending face-to-face sessions. One advantage to online therapy is that it eliminates the need to travel to a specific location to meet with a therapist. Instead, a client can be in a confidential location of his or her own choosing, be it a bedroom, a home office, or a private room reserved at the library. Many clients also find it more convenient, as it cuts down on driving time and dealing with traffic (no small consideration in the Raleigh/Durham area!).Another advantage to online therapy is that potential clients in rural areas can have access to services they would otherwise have to travel great distances for, or else do without. Many of our rural communities lack mental health services, or those services are offered at inconvenient times or locations.
Requirements for Online Therapy at Reach
Although there are several advantages of online therapy, there are also some concerns, so we have put some safeguards in place. In order to participate in online therapy at Pfeiffer InstituteReach, a potential client must meet the following criteria:- The client must physically reside in North Carolina, and be within state lines during all online therapy sessions.
- Individual therapy only. Online therapy is not available for couple or family therapy.
- The client must attend the first session face-to-face. During that first meeting, the therapist will evaluate the client to make sure he/she is appropriate for online therapy. The therapist will assess for issues such as suicidal or homicidal ideation, domestic violence situations, and comfort using technology. If the client is not appropriate for online therapy, the therapist will assist with referrals.
- The client must identify an emergency contact and sign a release for the therapist to confirm with that person that they are willing to serve as the emergency contact during online therapy.
Want to Try It?
If you're interested in Online Therapy and you fit all the requirements above, contact Reach today to schedule your appointment (remember, the first one is face-to-face): 919-941-2900 or pfeiffer.reach@pfeiffer.edu.
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Notice of Privacy Practices
