Telehealth Therapy 101: Everything You Need to Know to Begin

Why Telehealth Therapy is Changing Mental Health Care

Therapy has gone digital, and for good reason. Consider these eye-opening stats:

• Telehealth usage grew 154% in early 2020 and remains elevated (CDC)

• 91% of patients report satisfaction with virtual therapy (JMIR)

• No-show rates drop by 50% compared to in-person visits (Harvard Health)

What’s driving the shift?

• No commute = easier to keep appointments

• More comfortable opening up at home

• Access to specialists regardless of location

 

How Telehealth Therapy Actually Works

The Tech Side: Simpler Than You Think

You’ll typically need:

• A smartphone, tablet, or computer

• Reliable internet connection (5Mbps minimum)

• Private space (car, home office, even a walk-in closet works)

Platforms like Think Thought Psychiatry LLC use HIPAA-compliant video software that:

• Encrypts all communications

• Doesn’t store session recordings

• Works across devices

 

Session Structure: What to Expect

1. Pre-session paperwork (digital intake forms)

2. Virtual waiting room (just like a physical office)

3. The session itself (typically 45-55 minutes)

4. Follow-up plan (homework, next steps)

Pro tip: Many therapists send session summaries via secure portal for easy reference.

 

5 Common Telehealth Therapy Myths—Busted

1. “It’s not as effective as in-person”

   • Research shows equivalent outcomes for most conditions (APA)

2. “The technology is complicated”

   • Most platforms require just one click to join

3. “Insurance won’t cover it”

   • Medicare, Medicaid, and most private plans now reimburse telehealth

4. “Only certain issues can be treated”

   • Effective for everything from anxiety to OCD to relationship issues

5. “It feels impersonal”

   • Many patients report feeling more connected without office distractions

 

Getting the Most From Your Virtual Sessions

Pre-Session Prep

• Test your tech 15 minutes early

• Use wired headphones for better audio

• Close unnecessary browser tabs/apps

Creating the Right Environment

• Position your camera at eye level

• Choose a neutral background (or virtual one)

• Ensure good lighting (face a window if possible)

Session Strategies

• Keep a notebook handy for insights

• Use the chat function for sensitive topics

• Don’t stress about pauses—they’re normal

 

Who Benefits Most From Telehealth Therapy?

Ideal Candidates Include:

• Parents of young children (no need for childcare)

• People with mobility challenges

• Those in rural areas with few local providers

• Busy professionals who can’t take time off work

• Anyone who feels more comfortable at home

When In-Person May Be Better:

• Severe psychiatric crises

• Certain types of testing/evaluations

• If you lack private space at home

 

Your Telehealth Therapy Checklist

Before Starting:

☑ Verify your insurance coverage
☑ Research therapist specialties
☑ Test your internet speed (Fast.com)

First Session Ready:

☑ Charge your device
☑ Have tissues/water nearby
☑ Silence notifications

Between Sessions:

☑ Complete any assigned exercises
☑ Journal about insights
☑ Schedule next appointment

 

The Future of Virtual Mental Health Care

Emerging innovations to watch:

• VR therapy for phobias and PTSD

• AI mood tracking between sessions

• Group therapy platforms with breakout rooms

• Asynchronous messaging therapy options

 

Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health

Telehealth therapy removes so many traditional barriers to care. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or looking to continue your mental health journey, virtual options make support more accessible than ever.

Ready to begin? Connect with a licensed provider today at thinkthoughtpsychiatry.com.