Frequently Asked Questions

General Telehealth Questions

What is telehealth?

Telehealth refers to the delivery of healthcare services through digital communication technologies. This can include video calls with doctors or therapists, phone consultations, messaging-based care, and remote patient monitoring. Telehealth allows people to receive certain types of care without visiting a physical office.

Is telehealth the same as telemedicine?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically telemedicine usually refers to clinical services delivered remotely (like a doctor visit), while telehealth is a broader term that includes clinical services plus health education, administrative meetings, and provider training conducted remotely.

What types of care can be provided through telehealth?

Many types of care can be provided via telehealth, including but not limited to:

• Mental health counseling and therapy
• Psychiatric consultations and medication management
• Primary care consultations for non-emergency issues
• Follow-up appointments
• Chronic disease management
• Dermatology consultations
• Nutrition counseling

However, telehealth is not appropriate for all medical situations. Emergencies, conditions requiring physical examination, and certain procedures require in-person care.

Is telehealth effective?

Research has shown that telehealth can be effective for many conditions, particularly mental health services. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals have found that online therapy can be comparable to in-person therapy for conditions like depression and anxiety. However, effectiveness varies by individual, condition, and type of service. It's important to discuss with a healthcare provider whether telehealth is appropriate for your specific situation.

Online Therapy Questions

What is online therapy?

Online therapy (also called e-therapy, teletherapy, or virtual therapy) is mental health counseling conducted over the internet. This can take place via video calls, phone calls, text messaging, or a combination of these methods. Sessions are conducted by licensed therapists, counselors, or psychologists.

Who provides online therapy?

Online therapy is provided by licensed mental health professionals. Depending on the platform and your location, this may include:

• Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC)
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW)
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT)
• Psychologists (PhD, PsyD)
• Psychiatrists (MD) - for medication management

Always verify that your provider is licensed in your state and check their credentials before beginning treatment.

How do I know if online therapy is right for me?

Online therapy may be a good fit if you:

• Have a reliable internet connection and private space for sessions
• Feel comfortable communicating through technology
• Have scheduling constraints that make in-person visits difficult
• Live in an area with limited access to mental health providers
• Prefer the convenience of receiving care from home

Online therapy may not be appropriate if you are experiencing a mental health emergency, have severe mental illness requiring intensive treatment, or need services that require in-person assessment. Always discuss your options with a qualified healthcare professional.

What should I expect in my first online therapy session?

First sessions typically involve the therapist getting to know you, understanding your concerns, discussing your history, and establishing goals for treatment. You may be asked about:

• Your reasons for seeking therapy
• Your mental health history
• Current symptoms or challenges
• Your support system and life circumstances
• What you hope to achieve through therapy

The therapist will also explain their approach, discuss confidentiality, and answer your questions about the therapeutic process.

Cost and Insurance Questions

Does insurance cover telehealth?

Many insurance plans now cover telehealth services, though coverage varies significantly by plan, state, and type of service. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth coverage has expanded substantially. However, you should:

• Contact your insurance provider to verify telehealth coverage
• Ask about any limitations or requirements (such as using specific platforms)
• Understand your copay or coinsurance for telehealth visits
• Check if mental health services have different coverage than medical visits

How much does online therapy cost without insurance?

Costs vary widely depending on the platform, provider credentials, and type of service. As general information (verify current pricing directly with services):

• Subscription-based platforms may range from approximately $60-$100 per week for unlimited messaging plus live sessions
• Individual video sessions may range from approximately $80-$250 per session
• Some platforms offer sliding scale fees based on income

Prices change over time, so always verify current pricing directly with the service you're considering.

Are there affordable options for online therapy?

Several options may help make therapy more affordable:

• Check if your employer offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with free sessions
• Look for platforms offering sliding scale fees
• Some community mental health centers offer telehealth at reduced rates
• University training clinics sometimes offer lower-cost services
• Open Path Collective offers reduced-fee sessions with member therapists

Privacy and Security Questions

Is online therapy confidential?

Licensed therapists are bound by the same confidentiality requirements whether they practice online or in person. However, there are important considerations for online services:

• Reputable platforms use encryption to protect communications
• You should ensure you have a private space for sessions
• Be cautious about using public Wi-Fi networks
• Understand the platform's data storage and privacy policies

As with in-person therapy, there are legal exceptions to confidentiality (such as mandated reporting of child abuse or imminent danger to self or others).

How do I protect my privacy during telehealth visits?

To help maintain privacy during telehealth appointments:

• Use a private room where you won't be overheard
• Use headphones if others are nearby
• Use a secure, private internet connection
• Ensure your device has current security updates
• Log out of the platform after each session
• Ask your provider about their security measures

Technical Questions

What technology do I need for telehealth?

Basic requirements typically include:

• A device with a camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, or computer)
• Reliable internet connection
• A private, quiet space
• The platform's app or a supported web browser

What if I have technical problems during a session?

Technical issues can happen. Most providers have backup plans, such as switching to a phone call. Before your first session, it's helpful to:

• Test your device and internet connection
• Have your provider's phone number available as a backup
• Know how to troubleshoot basic issues (restarting the app, refreshing the browser)
• Ensure your device is charged or plugged in

About This Website

Does Telehealth Navigator AI provide therapy or medical advice?

No. Telehealth Navigator AI is an informational resource only. We do not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Our AI chat feature provides general educational information about telehealth options—it is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult with licensed healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and treatment.

Is Telehealth Navigator AI a crisis service?

No. This website is not equipped to handle emergencies or crisis situations. If you are in danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact:

• 911 (in the United States) for emergencies
• 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the US)
• Your local emergency services
• A trusted person who can help you get immediate care