Psychological Services Using Virtual Therapy
Psychological & Counselling Services Group (including Oshawa Psychological & Counselling Services and Woodbine Psychological & Counselling Services) offers online virtual therapy services with a psychologist, psychotherapist or clinician using the Zoom 5.0 for Health Care videoconferencing platform.
Online Virtual Therapy (also called Online Therapy, Teletherapy or Telepsychology) has been increasingly used in the past few years as a convenient, flexible alternative to in-person therapy and has demonstrated effectiveness in research studies.
Our Virtual Therapy services include: Individual, Couple, Family or Group Therapy, Learning Disabilities, Program Using Psychoeducational Intervention for Learning (PUPIL) Clinic
What is a virtual therapy appointment?
In a virtual therapy appointment, you use technology such as a computer, tablet, or phone to communicate with your psychologist or clinician over the Internet. The entire process is completed online and can be done in the safety and comfort of your home. Just like a regular office visit, your virtual therapy visit will be private and confidential.
How can I prepare for a virtual therapy appointment?
- Find a quiet, private space that is free of distractions.
- Use a secure internet connection rather than public/free Wi-Fi.
- Check that your WIFI connection is strong enough and that your webcam and speakers are working.
- Please be on time. If you need to cancel or change your Virtual Therapy appointment, you must notify the office in advance by phone or email.
- Have a back-up plan (such as a phone number where you can be reached) to restart the session or to reschedule it in the event of technical problems.
- Contact your Private Health Insurance to check if they cover Virtual Care Services provided by Psychologists or Psychotherapists We do not direct bill. Payments may be made by phone or online with credit card or e-transfer.
What are the advantages of virtual therapy?
Confidentiality: Zoom 5.0 for Health Care videoconferencing platform is a secure online platform that is HIPAA and PIPEDA/PHIPA compliant to ensure confidentiality and to protect client information.
Accessibility: Virtual therapy removes some of the physical barriers that might keep you from having easy access to our services. If you live far away from our locations, or have a physical disability that could impede your ability to travel to your appointments, Virtual Therapy would allow you to schedule appointments and speak with your therapist without having to leave your home.
Flexibility: By removing the factor of travel time, appointments become much easier and much more convenient to schedule, both on your end and on your therapist’s. Scheduling conflicts and cancellations also are easier to work around.
Privacy: Sometimes, concerns about social stigma or remaining anonymous can deter people from reaching out to mental health services when they require them. With virtual therapy, the only person you have to interact with is your therapist – no need to worry about talking to receptionists or be seen in the waiting room.
Comfort: Having therapy sessions in your home rather than in a clinical setting could have a positive effect on your comfort level and ability to be present with your therapist.
Additional Zoom Benefits: Screen sharing, whiteboarding, conference sessions
PLEASE NOTE: Although virtual therapy appointments have many benefits, there may be some reasons why you might require to see someone in-person. These could include lack of access to technology, an unstable home environment, or the severity of your condition. Please consult your therapist in order to decide whether virtual therapy is right for you.