How Teletherapy Works (and why it may be just as effective as in person therapy)

To start the new year, you may have been contemplating whether to look into therapy for your child or teen. It can be a daunting process. Therapists may provide in person, teletherapy services, or a combination of both.

Currently in my practice, I offer teletherapy services. You may be wondering whether telemental health (aka teletherapy) is the right fit for your child. Teletherapy has become a more prominent form of delivering therapy services since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The good news is that research has shown teletherapy to be an effective form of therapy. In one study from 2020, telemental health was shown to be effective for youth with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation*.

How Teletherapy Works

So how does teletherapy work? Teletherapy takes place typically over video conferencing or phone. This is done via a HIPAA compliant platform. Clients will need access to a device with a camera or a phone, as well as some knowledge in how to use those devices. It is important for parents to create a space where their child can feel like the session is private and confidential. The child or teen may want to have access to certain items during the session, whether it be a fidget or sensory item, art supplies, or something special they would like to share with the therapist. Once the teletherapy session starts, it may look very similar to an in-person session. In my teletherapy practice, I even include playing games like I would with an in-person session, only online.

Benefits of Teletherapy

There are some unique benefits to participating in teletherapy services. For instance, teletherapy can be a more convenient way to fit therapy into your child’s already busy schedule. Some children also feel more comfortable participating in therapy when they are in their own environment. Teletherapy is also a great way for people in more rural areas to engage in therapy, when the opportunity may not have been present otherwise.

Special Considerations

That being said, teletherapy is not always the right fit for every child. There are a few things to consider before pursuing teletherapy. For instance, if your child is very young, they may have a difficult time participating in therapy online. Some children may be too distracted to get enough benefit from a teletherapy session. It is also important to consider privacy issues like finding a private space for your child to participate confidentially in therapy.

It is important to take time to consider the pros and cons for teletherapy services. In my own practice here in Arizona, I offer a free, 15-minute consultation where I am happy to answer any questions you may have about teletherapy services. An important note: in order to work with me, clients must be a resident of Arizona and participate in teletherapy services in Arizona.

Wishing you the best in 2026.

*Reference: Fairchild et. al. (2020)

**This post is for educational and informational purposes only.