Teletherapy

Mark Hastings, M. S., MFT provides in-person appointments in Pasadena, and online to all residents of California 

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of teletherapy:

Advantages of Teletherapy (Online Therapy)

In addition to being proven effective, online psychology also has some clear advantages over traditional face-to-face treatment: 

1. This type of professional support can often be arranged impromptu; There is a capacity to meet with the therapist immediately after a critical event (provided the therapist’s schedule allows for it).
2. It preserves even more anonymity and discretion, which can attract people who might otherwise have been embarrassed to seek support.
3. Saves time and money for travel.
4. Allows more continuous contact between the therapist and the client. 
5. It favors privacy and disinhibition, enhancing the therapeutic relationship.
6. It is more accessible. You will receive the sessions from the comfort of your home and also, you can organize the sessions taking into account the hours that best suit you and fit with those of the professional. 

Disadvantages of Teletherapy

While online therapy has a wide variety of potential benefits, it is not for everyone, and it is not without its challenges:

1. Not possible for severe psychiatric psychopathologies or profound disorders.
2. In many cases, it’s not possible to see the facial expressions, hear the voice, or see the body language of the client that can help the therapist arrive at an appropriate evaluation and treatment plan.
3. Not possible for crisis situations. Since online therapists are far from the client, it is difficult to respond quickly and effectively when a moment of crisis occurs.
4. Possible technological obstacles (frozen videos, loss of internet, etc..)

Security, Privacy, and Confidentiality

This practice uses doxy.me to deliver telehealth services. Secure data transmission and patient privacy is a top priority. Doxy.me utilizes state-of-the-art security and encryption protocols, making it compliant with HIPAA and HITECH requirements.

Confidentiality laws continue to apply with teletherapy as with traditional office-based treatment. Information and records are kept confidential unless you sign a release form. However, there are some exceptions to confidentiality. By law, there are areas where certain information may be released without your authorization. These areas include suspicion of child or elder abuse, evidence of suicidal or homicidal intention or receipt of a court order. Please be aware that if you wish to use your insurance, you may not be guaranteed confidentiality. A copy of the office’s privacy practices is available on request.

Click here to Contact Mark for a teletherapy consultation.