Questions to Ask When Choosing a Telehealth Psychologist

Why Your Telehealth Psychologist Choice Matters

Not all virtual therapy experiences are created equal. Consider:

• 74% of patients stick with therapy longer when well-matched to their provider (APA)

• Therapist expertise impacts outcomes more than treatment type (NIH)

• Bad fits cost Americans $3.2 billion annually in ineffective care (JAMA Psychiatry)

Common mismatches to avoid:

• Generalists treating specialized conditions

• Theoretical approaches that don’t resonate with you

• Communication styles that feel jarring

 

12 Essential Questions to Ask Potential Telehealth Psychologists

1. Credentials & Experience

• “Are you licensed in my state?”

  • Why it matters: Psychologists must be licensed where you physically reside

• “What’s your experience treating [your specific concern]?”

  • Red flag: Vague answers like “I treat everything”

2. Treatment Approach

• “What evidence-based methods do you use for [your issue]?”

  • Listen for: CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc. with condition-specific training

• “How do you adapt in-person techniques for telehealth?”

  • Good sign: Mentions digital tools like shared whiteboards

3. Practical Logistics

• “What’s your cancellation policy?”

  • Industry standard: 24-48 hour notice

• “How do you handle technical issues during sessions?”

  • Ideal answer: Backup communication plan (phone, encrypted chat)

4. Session Format & Tools

• “Do you offer between-session support?”

  • Progressive options: Secure messaging with response timelines

• “What telehealth platform do you use?”

  • Must be HIPAA-compliant (e.g., Doxy.me, not FaceTime)

5. Outcomes & Progress Tracking

• “How do you measure treatment success?”

  • Look for: Clear metrics like PHQ-9 scores for depression

• “What’s your typical timeline for seeing progress?”

  • Realistic answers: 3-6 months for most conditions

6. Special Circumstances

• “How would you handle a crisis situation remotely?”

  • Safety must: Local emergency contacts protocol

• “Can you coordinate care with my other providers?”

  • Comprehensive care: Willingness to sign ROI forms

 

Red Flags in Telehealth Psychology

Steer clear if they:

• Guarantee specific results (“I’ll cure your anxiety in 4 sessions!”)

• Can’t explain their confidentiality protections

• Don’t offer free 15-minute consultations

• Pressure you into longer commitments upfront

Tech warning signs:

• Using consumer platforms like Zoom (non-HIPAA)

• No backup plan for connectivity issues

• Unsecured document sharing methods

 

How to Test the Fit Before Committing

The 5-Minute Compatibility Check

During initial consults, assess:

1. Communication style: Do they “get” you quickly?

2. Personality vibe: Warm vs. clinical demeanor

3. Listening balance: Good mix of listening and guiding

Trust Your Gut

Ask yourself post-consult:

• Did I feel heard?

• Were explanations clear?

• Do I look forward to working with them?

Pro tip: Think Thought Psychiatry LLC and similar quality providers encourage these vetting questions—beware of therapists who seem annoyed by them.

 

Telehealth Psychology Q&A Cheat Sheet

Print this checklist for consultations:

Credentials
☐ Licenses (state + specialty boards)
☐ Malpractice insurance

Methods
☐ Treatment modalities offered
☐ Homework/between-session tools

Practicalities
☐ Session length/frequency
☐ Insurance/billing process

Crisis Plan
☐ After-hours protocols
☐ Local referrals if needed

 

Your Next Steps to Finding the Right Match

1. Identify 3-5 potential therapists through:

   • Psychology Today’s telehealth filter

   • Your insurance provider directory

   • Trusted provider networks

2. Schedule brief consultations (most offer free 15-min calls)

3. Compare notes using our question checklist

4. Start with 3 sessions before evaluating fit