What is Teletherapy/Telehealth?
For starters, Telehealth is the use of digital information and communication technologies, such as computers and mobile devices, to access health care services remotely and manage your health care. Teletherapy is therapy performed through a live video connection.
The Teletherapy sessions have been important for patients in maintaining sense of normalcy and self-care. Also, being face-to-face and in each others homes has provided another level of comfort and familiarity, which has been really lovely in strengthening the therapeutic bond.
Rebecca Campbell, Psychotherapist
Is Teletherapy effective?
Yes. For most clients, research shows Teletherapy is as effective as in-person therapy. Multiple studies have found that Teletherapy tends to have high client satisfaction ratings and produces outcomes as good as traditional face-to-face therapy. Our own experience has born this through, with numerous satisfied clients.
I feel the telehealth sessions have been a great way to show how adaptive and creative we can be with therapy. My clients have really enjoyed being able to see in “real time” how the techniques I use in the clinic can apply to the home. Especially for my feeding clients, doing therapy sessions including the whole family has been a real joy as you can really have fun with foods and make it therapeutic. It’s a great session when you get to build houses out of granola bars and “paint” on the kitchen table with whipped cream!
Kate Austin, occupational/feeding therapist
Is it easy to use?
Yes, it’s extremely easy to use. The Teletherapy/Telehealth platform sends either a text or email (your choice) around the beginning of the session. You simply click on it and it brings you to the video conference. There’s no registration, password, special software, nor any other barriers. All you need is a computer or mobile device with a browser and a solid internet connection.
Is it awkward?
Most of our clients, including those who were initially reluctant, have given us feedback that they are finding Teletherapy/Telehealth to be helpful and comfortable. Our therapists echo those sentiments.
The switch to telehealth sessions has been seamless for me and my psychotherapy clients. Scheduling and connecting have been easy, and we’ve all appreciated the opportunity to continue to connect during this time of uncertainty and social distancing.”
Dr. Sarah Rendell, Psychologist
Is it for children, as well as adults?
Yes. Teens and adults find it easy to use, but it can also be helpful for younger kids. Dr. Chris Bogart, a psychologist who often works with children, said, “Teletherapy has been a great option for me to check in with my clients of all ages. I also like the flexibility of being able to schedule shorter appointments or check-ins with younger clients.”
I personally enjoy it because it allows OT activities to be done utilizing home equipment, it allows the child and family to learn these activities to replicate them throughout the week to augment therapy.
Deanna Lindberg, sensory-based occupational therapist
Is it for everyone?
No. Some potential clients who are experiencing very severe difficulties that require a higher level of services and support may not be best served by teletherapy. There may also be some other clients who have special needs or circumstances that may not be a good fit for this type of service. If you’re unsure, our intake staff, in consultation with our clinicians, can help you make this determination.
Is it confidential?
The platform we use is HIPAA-compliant, which means it meets stringent security standards and offers a high degree of confidentiality. No sessions or images are recorded by the therapist or the teletherapy platform, nor are any phone numbers or email addresses saved in it. Of course, you need to make sure you have a private place to talk to ensure confidentiality on your end.
How do I get started?
It’s as easy as calling (203) 202-7654 or emailing hello@sascoriver.com.. We’ll get some basic information from you, and then match you with the therapist who is the best fit for you or your loved one. If you already have a name of a therapist you’d like to see, our staff will make every effort to connect you to that clinician.
Do you have more questions, or want to find out more? Call us at (203) 202-7654 or email at hello@sascoriver.com.
Commitment to Inclusivity: Sasco River Center is an equal opportunity organization, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, disability, color, size, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic background. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all clients and colleagues.