Comprehensive Telehealth FAQ: Your Questions Answered

At Maplewood Counseling, we provide inclusive care for people of all races, cultures, and backgrounds, including interfaith, interracial, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and blended families. Our therapists bring lived experiences and specialized training to create a safe, affirming space for all.

General Telehealth Questions

What is telehealth therapy and how does it work?
Telehealth therapy, also known as online counseling or virtual therapy, allows you to meet with a licensed therapist through a secure video call. It works just like an in-person session, but with the added convenience of being in a location of your choice. Before your appointment, you will receive a secure link to join your session from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. It’s a simple, confidential, and effective way to receive support.

What technology do I need for a virtual session?
You will need three things for a successful session:

1. A device with a camera and microphone (like a computer, tablet, or smartphone).
2. A stable internet connection.
3. A quiet, private space where you can speak openly without interruptions.

Our team is here to help if you have any questions about getting set up.

Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes, for many people, telehealth is just as effective as traditional in-person therapy. Research and our own client experiences show that virtual sessions provide the same level of professional support and produce similar positive outcomes. The comfort and convenience of meeting from home can even make it easier for some individuals, couples, and families to open up and engage more deeply.

How is my privacy protected during online sessions?
Your confidentiality is our highest priority. We use a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform for all our telehealth sessions. This technology features end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your conversations with your therapist remain completely private and protected. We uphold the same strict confidentiality standards for our virtual services as we do for our in-person sessions.

Questions About Our Therapy Services

What types of therapy do you offer via telehealth?
We offer a full range of our services through telehealth to meet your unique needs. This includes:

• Individual Therapy: For managing personal challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, and grief.
• Couples Therapy: To help partners improve communication, resolve conflict, and rebuild intimacy.
• Family Therapy: For families seeking to improve dynamics, navigate transitions, and restore harmony.

How can telehealth help with anxiety or depression?
Virtual therapy provides a consistent and accessible way to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. Having regular support from the comfort of your own environment can reduce the stress of scheduling and travel, making it easier to commit to your healing process. Your therapist will work with you to develop coping strategies and provide a safe space to explore your feelings, all through a secure online connection.

We are a couple with a busy schedule. Can telehealth work for us?
Absolutely. Telehealth is an ideal solution for busy couples. It eliminates travel time and offers greater flexibility in scheduling, making it easier to find a time that works for both partners. Many couples find that meeting from home helps them feel more relaxed and focused, allowing them to work on strengthening their relationship without added stress.

Is telehealth suitable for family therapy?
Yes. Virtual family therapy can be highly effective. It allows family members who may live in different locations across New Jersey to join sessions together. Meeting from your own homes can also provide valuable insight into family dynamics. Your therapist is skilled at facilitating productive conversations and ensuring everyone feels heard, even in a virtual setting.

Effectiveness and Inclusivity

Do you have data on the effectiveness of telehealth at Maplewood Counseling?
While individual results vary, a significant number of our clients have reported positive outcomes from telehealth. Many share that they have achieved their therapy goals and experienced meaningful improvements in their relationships and personal well-being. We are proud that our clients find our virtual services to be a powerful and effective path to healing.

How many of your clients prefer the convenience of telehealth?
A growing percentage of our clients choose telehealth for its convenience and flexibility. The ability to attend sessions without traveling, take appointments during a lunch break, or connect from home has made mental health care more accessible than ever. This option is particularly valued by clients with demanding schedules, parenting responsibilities, or mobility challenges.

Is your telehealth practice inclusive and welcoming to everyone?
Yes. Maplewood Counseling is committed to providing a safe, affirming, and non-judgmental space for everyone. We welcome individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Our therapists are dedicated to providing culturally sensitive care that honors your unique identity and experiences.

Getting Started

What if I experience technical problems during my session?
We understand that technical issues can happen. If you lose connection or experience a problem, your therapist will have a backup plan in place, which usually involves calling you to troubleshoot or attempting to reconnect. We will work with you to ensure your session time is honored and your care is not disrupted.

How do I book a telehealth appointment?
Taking the first step is simple. You can contact us to schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation. During this call, we will answer any remaining questions you have and match you with a therapist who fits your needs.

Helpful Telehealth Resources

• Explore Our Telehealth & Virtual Therapy Hub: See our telehealth and virtual therapy support hub.
• Accessible Telehealth Mental Health Care: Learn how telehealth makes mental health care more accessible, offering flexible and inclusive therapy options for individuals, couples, and families.
• Online Couples Therapy: Explore how online therapy helps couples reconnect, improve communication, and strengthen their relationship from the comfort of home.
• NJ Telehealth Counseling & Online Therapy: Discover the benefits of telehealth counseling for New Jersey residents, including personalized support for a variety of mental health needs.
• Online Therapy in NJ: Find out how online therapy provides a convenient and effective way to address mental health challenges without leaving your home.
• Telehealth Standards: Learn about the high standards Maplewood Counseling upholds to ensure quality and confidentiality in telehealth therapy sessions.