Telehealth Therapy

At the beginning of the pandemic, the staff of Paraclete Counseling Center transitioned to offering telehealth counseling services. Currently, we offer both in-person and telehealth counseling.

Telehealth counseling services, also known as telemental health or virtual counseling, are performed over the internet as video-based counseling or through the telephone.  These sessions are scheduled just like in person counseling sessions.  For video sessions, we utilize a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform that is completely confidential. 

There are several benefits to virtual counseling. First, it is convenient. You don’t have to drive to our office, which can lessen time away from work. If you are sick or have a sick child at home, you can still have your appointment instead of having to cancel. It is accessible. It allows you to see your therapist if you are traveling (within the state of Georgia) or have a very busy schedule. Telehealth services can be particularly helpful for people who live in remote areas, who have limited mobility due to disability or for those who have caregiving responsibilities. It was particularly helpful in keeping those people who have underlying medical conditions safe during the COVID pandemic.

Virtual counseling can be offered as a standalone treatment. It can also be used in combination with in-person counseling. Many therapeutic issues can be addressed through telehealth counseling. Contact us or call us today to discuss whether telehealth services are a good fit for you.

For more information on telehealth counseling services, here are some frequently asked questions below:

  • Yes, telehealth visits cost the same as an in-office visit. During the pandemic, insurance companies are typically covering video-based telehealth visits at the same level they are covering in-person sessions. Generally, phone sessions are NOT covered by insurance companies. Please check with your insurance company if you need more information regarding telehealth coverage.  

  • Our practice utilizes a HIPAA-compliant encrypted telehealth platform to do our video sessions. We ask you to find a private location for your session where others will not be able to hear your conversation.

  • Our practice utilizes an online credit card processing system through our bank to process payments. Your counselor will collect your payment information during your first session and enter it into this portal, which will keep your credit card information encrypted and secure for future payments. A receipt will automatically be emailed to you.

  • All of our therapists are licensed in the state of Georgia so if your travel keeps you in the state of Georgia, there is no restriction to seeing your therapist for a telehealth visit while you are traveling. If your travels take you to another state, please notify your therapist so we can check the laws regarding our ability to perform counseling while you are in another state. 

First time seeing a counselor virtually? Click here for tips to prepare for a telehealth therapy session.