At Family Therapy Associates of Jacksonville (FTAJ), we take pride in offering the highest quality of client care. That commitment influences everything we do. When the world came to a stop during the pandemic, we used our professional teletherapy option for many clients who needed continued care. Likewise, therapy offices around the globe found themselves in the same position and the offering of “online therapy” seemed to grow overnight.
This left many people asking – is all online therapy equal? According to the American Psychology Association, people who seek therapy online should ask a lot of questions before their first online session. In this article, we will address some of the most common questions.
What is the Format?
Online therapy can include video therapy sessions with a therapist, emails with a therapist, or even phone and text options.
At FTAJ, our primary format is video therapy, also known as teletherapy (think Zoom but HIPAA compliant). Meeting with our clients in real-time, using visuals and voice, creates an ideal online therapy experience. While we prefer video therapy, there are times when we may offer phone sessions. Our goal is to use technology for the best client experience, whatever the need. It is also highly effective. Research shows that teletherapy is as effective as seeing a therapist in person.
Who provides the services?
A quick search for online therapy will likely yield a ton of different options. You might find therapists who only provide online therapy or offices that see clients both in person and online. Your results may even include a variety of coaching sites that get lumped into search engines for online therapy.
Our office provides therapy by qualified professionals, both online and in person. We also have registered interns which are therapists who are working toward full licensure. Additionally, our reputation for providing highly-qualified and trained therapists begins with our student therapist program. This program includes training and supervision by state-approved supervisors. Finally, many of our therapists are board-certified as telemental health providers and all therapists have been trained in telehealth procedures.
Will a computer algorithm select my therapist?
Our customized consultation program ensures each client will be matched with the online therapist who is the best fit for them. This is not an online quiz with a few questions. It begins with a phone call. Our client care specialists will take the time to understand why you are seeking therapy and what you hope to gain through the experience. This information helps us determine the right therapist for you. We want to provide you with the highest quality of care and online therapy. Our team is happy to devote time to get to know you to do just that.
What about my safety and privacy?
FTAJ utilizes a secure platform that is HIPAA compliant to ensure our clients have the safety and privacy they expect and deserve. We match clients who have safety concerns, such as suicidal thoughts, with therapists who are trained in that level of care. Additional safety measures include visual identification and the collection of emergency information. This helps us ensure our client’s safety online while they are in session with our trained therapists.
How does an online client’s experience differ from going into the office?
VIP-level care has been part of FTAJ from day one. We designed the atmosphere of our office to help you feel comfortable. We provide the same level of dedication in our online therapy services; VIP treatment continues with every interaction. From the professionalism of our client care specialists to our team of therapists, we are all committed to your therapeutic experience.
We are glad your search led you to Family Therapy Associates of Jacksonville! We look forward to meeting your therapy needs and providing you with VIP-level care. Please call us at 904-302-5340 to speak with our client care specialists and schedule your free personalized consultation.