The Inside World of Telehealth Therapy: Perspectives and Realities

Insights Into The World Of Telehealth Therapy

The practice of telehealth therapy encompasses numerous dimensions. While telehealth therapists support clients with various mental health challenges, they also continuously work to understand human psychology, the root causes of mental health conditions, and the most effective approaches for their clients. This often involves testing different clinical methodologies, collaborating with colleagues, and engaging in lifelong learning throughout their careers.

Although therapists complete rigorous educational programs and professional training before obtaining licensure, the realities of clinical practice often differ significantly from academic learning. Each client presents unique challenges that may require customized or integrative approaches. Successful telehealth therapists tend to be adaptable, receptive to new ideas, and deeply committed to their professional development.

For those interested in pursuing a career in telehealth therapy, be prepared for dedication and persistence. Most therapists spend approximately eight years completing their education and training before becoming licensed, representing a substantial time investment. Beyond acquiring theoretical knowledge, the effectiveness of evidence-based interventions and therapeutic models depends significantly on the therapist’s delivery style, personality, authenticity, and human connection with clients.

As professionals with unique personalities, each therapist brings their own perspectives, approaches, and working styles that benefit clients in distinctive ways. Understanding therapists’ views on their profession can help clients better comprehend the support process and provide valuable insights for students pursuing careers in telehealth therapy.

The telehealth therapist’s perspective

Mental health professionals working in telehealth often have unique viewpoints about their profession.

According to Careers In Psychology, many therapists emphasize the importance of understanding job responsibilities and expectations before pursuing education in this field.

Gaining insights from practicing professionals can help you determine if becoming a telehealth therapist aligns with your goals. For clients, understanding a therapist’s perspective can foster empathy and appreciation for their work.

Therapeutic success requires partnership

Many telehealth therapists emphasize that a client’s motivation for self-improvement significantly impacts therapeutic outcomes. While therapists often receive primary focus and responsibility for results, successful therapy equally depends on the client’s commitment and willingness to engage. Therapy isn’t something done to a client but rather a collaborative process where the therapist provides guidance while the client actively participates in their healing journey.

Non-verbal communication remains crucial in virtual settings

How therapists present themselves, even through video sessions, significantly impacts the therapeutic relationship. When a telehealth therapist appears open, approachable, and non-judgmental in their virtual presence, clients typically feel more comfortable sharing openly during sessions. Despite the physical distance, creating a sense of connection remains essential.

Virtual therapy involves meaningful work

Various misconceptions exist about therapy, including that it provides easy solutions or that therapists simply tell clients what to do. Many believe treatment involves sitting down (or logging in) and receiving immediate advice that transforms their lives. However, changing human behavior takes time, and therapists rarely offer instant solutions. Often, therapy focuses on helping clients manage emotions, symptoms, and goals in healthier ways.

Additionally, telehealth therapy frequently involves discussing challenging experiences, uncomfortable topics, and vulnerable emotions, which can initially feel difficult. Therapy typically requires self-reflection and implementing changes, which becomes challenging when behavioral patterns are deeply established. Telehealth therapists teach clients how to address these areas and provide evidence-based resources that have benefited others with similar challenges.

For many, the therapeutic process becomes more comfortable with time and progress, though it may be brief for some. The therapeutic approach you select significantly influences the techniques and activities you’ll experience during sessions. Understanding what to expect before beginning telehealth therapy can be valuable preparation.

Therapy provides tools, not fixes

Another common misconception is that therapy functions as a “fix.” In reality, therapy represents a process enabling clients to develop skills, insights, and strategies to address specific concerns and enhance their mental wellbeing and quality of life. Everyone experiences setbacks and challenges. Therapy doesn’t necessarily eliminate these obstacles but equips clients with the tools, knowledge, and capacity to face them confidently.

Attending sessions marks the beginning of discovering effective therapeutic techniques. However, a client’s receptiveness, willingness, and openness significantly impact their experience of treatment effectiveness. Individual improvements vary, but therapy generally focuses on personal growth rather than ignoring, suppressing, eliminating, or “fixing” challenging symptoms, emotions, or experiences.

Research confirms these perspectives by demonstrating that emotional suppression and attempts to make feelings “disappear” can lead to physical health problems. All emotions serve a purpose, even uncomfortable ones, and telehealth therapists help clients ensure their thoughts and behaviors remain healthy when experiencing difficult feelings.

Reciprocal growth in telehealth therapy

One perspective on therapeutic work comes from Jeffrey Kottler, author of On Being a Therapist. Kottler’s book explores how clients influence their therapists’ lives. The work also examines how client interactions help therapists make positive changes in their personal lives, resolve their own challenges, and enhance their professional practice.

On Being a Therapist has received considerable acclaim. Readers appreciate Kottler’s conversational writing style and his exploration of how clients’ words, choices, and situations can impact, enlighten, and inspire therapists. Kottler earns particular recognition for emphasizing therapists’ humanity and empathy.

While perspectives on being a therapist vary widely, Kottler’s book provides comprehensive insights for those curious about this profession. Popular media typically focuses on how therapists impact clients and what clients can expect from therapy. However, understanding the reciprocal benefits therapists receive from client relationships offers a unique perspective on the profession.

Telehealth therapy options

The therapy field encompasses over 400 specialties that practitioners can study. Some therapists work with families and relationships, while others support those experiencing conditions like depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, or personality disorders. Regardless of the specialization needed, thousands of qualified providers are available nationwide. For those facing barriers to accessing specific types of providers, telehealth therapy offers a valuable alternative.

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Telehealth therapists can provide support regardless of geographic location. This approach allows clients to receive therapy from home and maintain ongoing communication with their therapist between sessions. Research on online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) demonstrates that virtual interventions can be as effective as in-person options for treating symptoms of social anxiety, depression, general anxiety, and stress.

If you’re considering working with a telehealth therapist, a platform like ReachLink offers a team of licensed professionals with expertise in various psychological specialties.

Takeaway

Support is accessible regardless of your background, location, or challenges. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the therapy profession continues experiencing growing demand, with many individuals already benefiting from therapeutic services. Seeking support represents a courageous step, and you’re not alone in this journey. Consider connecting with a telehealth mental health professional to receive guidance in finding the support that meets your unique needs.