Online Counseling

Online Counseling Services in Suwanee, GA: Convenient, Confidential Therapy

At Paraclete Counseling Center in Suwanee, GA, we understand the importance of accessible and flexible therapy. During the pandemic, we transitioned to offering telehealth counseling services and have since continued providing both in-person and online counseling to meet the needs of our clients.

What is Telehealth Counseling?

Telehealth counseling—also known as telemental health or virtual counseling—allows you to receive therapy from the comfort of your own home. Sessions are conducted over the internet through video calls or telephone calls. Just like in-person therapy, telehealth appointments are scheduled at convenient times, and for video sessions, we use a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to ensure complete confidentiality and security.

Benefits of Online Counseling

There are many reasons why online counseling in Suwanee, GA might be the perfect option for you:

  • Convenience: No need to drive to our office, saving you time and reducing stress. You can even attend sessions during lunch breaks or in between busy tasks.

  • Accessibility: Whether you’re traveling within Georgia or have a packed schedule, you can still access therapy without interruption.

  • Flexibility: If you’re feeling unwell or have caregiving responsibilities, you don’t need to miss your appointment. Telehealth therapy allows you to stay on track with your treatment plan.

  • Remote Support: Online counseling is especially helpful for individuals living in remote areas, those with mobility challenges, or people with health conditions who prefer to limit in-person interactions.

  • Safety: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, online therapy helped clients with underlying medical conditions stay safe while continuing their therapy.

What Can Be Addressed Through Virtual Counseling?

Telehealth therapy is effective for addressing a wide range of issues, including:

  • Anxiety and stress management

  • Depression and mood disorders

  • Relationship issues

  • Grief and loss

  • Trauma recovery

  • Parenting support

  • Life transitions

  • Addiction recovery

It can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with in-person counseling to provide a hybrid approach that best suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Counseling

Here are some common questions we receive about our telehealth services:

  • Yes, telehealth visits are priced the same as in-office visits. Most insurance companies cover video-based telehealth sessions at the same rate as in-person appointments. However, phone sessions are generally not covered by insurance providers. We recommend checking with your insurance company directly to confirm their coverage for telehealth services and any specific requirements.

  • Our practice uses a HIPAA-compliant, encrypted telehealth platform for all video sessions. We recommend that you find a private location where you can speak freely without interruptions and ensure that others cannot overhear your conversation.

  • Our practice uses a secure online credit card processing system through our bank to handle payments. During your first session, your counselor will collect your payment information and enter it into the portal, ensuring your credit card details are encrypted and stored securely for future payments. You will receive an automatic receipt via email after each payment.

  • Yes, you can have a telehealth appointment as long as you're within Georgia. Our telehealth services are available statewide, and all of our therapists are licensed in Georgia. As long as you remain in the state, you can continue your telehealth sessions while traveling. If you travel outside of Georgia, please notify your therapist so we can verify the legal requirements for providing counseling across state lines.

  • Telehealth may feel intimidating to those who don’t have much experience using technology.  Privacy might be a concern for some because of the worry that family members or roommates might overhear a session. These potential barriers can be addressed and overcome with the following tips:

    • Make sure you are in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed or heard. This may be in a bedroom, home office, basement, a large closet or even in your parked car.

    • If you live with others, choose the place ahead of time and ask others to respect your privacy and not interrupt you.

    • Consider putting a white noise machine, small fan or speaker with music playing outside of the door to the room you will be in so others can’t overhear you.

    • Whether you are using a smartphone, computer or tablet, make sure you have downloaded the app or program you will use in advance to access the telehealth appointment. Check your email in advance to make sure you have the video link. Also make sure the device you are using has a working camera and microphone and is fully charged.

    • Consider using headphones or earbuds to improve sound quality and maintain privacy.

    • If you are self-conscious about your appearance or distracted by seeing yourself on your device’s screen, put a small piece of paper over your image on the screen.

    • Treat your telehealth therapy session as if you are meeting with your therapist in person. Avoid engaging in tasks you wouldn’t normally do if you and your therapist were meeting in their office.

    With the right steps and preparation, teletherapy sessions can be enjoyable and productive, even without an in-person meeting.

Take the Next Step Towards Better Mental Health Today

If you’re ready to experience the flexibility and convenience of online counseling in Suwanee, GA, contact us to schedule your first telehealth session. Our compassionate therapists are here to support you, whether you're at home, traveling within Georgia, or managing a busy schedule. Get started today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.