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As vaccinations continue to roll out, many people are considering continuing with teletherapy beyond the pandemic.
Before making the decision to begin in-person therapy again, it is worth considering which relationships and interactions you need or want “in person” and those which you may continue with virtually.
This way, your choice to continue with teletherapy beyond the pandemic or begin in-person therapy will be based on the values and lifestyle that best supports your mental health needs.
If you want to meet with your therapist in person or continue with teletherapy beyond the pandemic, consider the following.
Reasons to Consider Ongoing Teletherapy
Scheduling flexibility:
As we adapt to the changes that the pandemic has brought on, people are seizing the opportunity to update their lifestyle. Focusing on your values and priorities can help you live your best life.
One commonly shared value is wanting greater flexibility. More scheduling flexibility helps people plan to spend their time on what matters most to them.
Beginning or continuing with teletherapy beyond the pandemic can offer you more flexibility with scheduling appointments.
Greater access to therapy:
Some people have very restrictive schedules due to work, school, parenting, or caregiving responsibilities.
These restrictions can leave very little time to leave the office or home and travel to appointments. But teletherapy allows you to schedule therapy when it works best for you and your busy schedule.
Beginning or continuing with teletherapy beyond the pandemic gives you access to appointments when and where it’s most convenient for you.
Broader options with therapists:
By beginning or continuing with therapy beyond the pandemic, you’re not restricted to finding a therapist within driving distance.
This means that you can broaden your search for a therapist based on your preferences. By focusing on what’s most important to you, you can connect with a therapist you feel comfortable with. And a therapist who you feel comfortable with will be a good fit for you.
Teletherapy gives you more access to therapists across your entire state that may offer specialized treatment best for your needs.
Increased confidentiality and anonymity:
For people who want additional privacy when seeking out treatment, teletherapy offers an added element of confidentiality.
Fortunately, therapists have a legal and ethical responsibility to maintain a client’s confidentiality. However, some clients may still have concerns about running into their therapist around town.
Teletherapy gives you the ability to avoid attending an appointment in your local community. Without the trouble of waiting rooms or shared parking lots, you can avoid interactions that may put your privacy at risk.
Beginning or continuing with teletherapy beyond the pandemic gives you additional confidentiality and comfort.
Potentially more affordable:
It remains unclear how insurance companies will handle teletherapy post-pandemic. However, some insurance companies are offering lower co-pays for teletherapy appointments.
For those people who do not want to rely on their health insurance plan or do not want to bill through their health insurance, therapists will frequently offer reduced rates for self-pay clients for teletherapy.
Bringing it All Together
Considering everyone above, I encourage you to take the time to reflect on what works best for you and your current needs.
As the long-term impact of the pandemic becomes more apparent, the demand for mental health services will continue to grow and teletherapy will continue to be an option for mental health care.
If you are interested in teletherapy, please feel free to check out my Mental Health Match profile and reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
