Frequently Asked Questions About Online Therapy

Your questions about online therapy, answered.

If you're considering online therapy for the first time, it's completely normal to have questions. At Good Counsel Therapy, we believe that understanding how teletherapy works is an important part of feeling confident in your decision to seek support. Below, you'll find answers to the most common questions about online therapy in Texas and New Jersey, from how sessions work to insurance coverage, confidentiality, and what to expect in your first appointment.

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Understanding Online Therapy: Common Questions from New Clients

Online therapy has become an increasingly popular and accessible way to receive mental health support. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions, telehealth counseling offers the same evidence-based treatment you'd receive in person, with the added convenience of attending sessions from home. Below, we've answered the questions we hear most often from clients in Texas and New Jersey who are exploring online therapy options.

At Good Counsel Therapy, we're committed to providing high-quality, faith-informed online counseling that meets the highest clinical and ethical standards. Our licensed therapists specialize in anxiety treatment, trauma therapy, couples counseling, and more, using secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms to ensure your privacy and peace of mind. Whether you're searching for a therapist in Texas or online counseling in New Jersey, we're here to help you take the first step toward healing and growth.

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calm home setting for online therapy appointment

FAQs

  • Online therapy (also called teletherapy or telehealth counseling) is a form of mental health treatment conducted remotely using secure video calls. A licensed therapist provides the same kinds of support they would in person—including talk therapy, coping strategies, and treatment plans—but through an online platform.

  • Yes, for many people and many mental health conditions, research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as traditional in-person therapy. Studies have found comparable outcomes for conditions like:

    • Generalized anxiety disorder

    • Major depressive disorder

    • Post-traumatic stress disorder

    • Relationship and stress-related concerns

    A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in JMIR Mental Health found that psychiatric treatment conducted via telemedicine showed comparable effectiveness to in-person modality for posttraumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.

  • Your first session is usually focused on getting to know each other and setting goals. Common steps include:

    • Reviewing confidentiality and how online therapy works

    • Discussing your concerns, history, and what brought you to therapy

    • Setting short- and long-term goals

    • Testing the technology (e.g., audio/video, comfort with the platform)

    • Asking any questions about the therapist's approach

    You won't have to share everything at once—it's okay to go at your own pace.

  • Online therapy may be a good fit if you:

    • Prefer the convenience of home sessions or have mobility or scheduling challenges

    • Feel comfortable communicating over video or phone

    • Want access to more therapist options outside your immediate area

  • Yes, in many cases. Most major insurance plans in Texas and New Jersey cover online therapy (telehealth) similarly to in-person sessions, especially since coverage expanded after the COVID-19 pandemic. Coverage depends on your specific plan—co-pays, deductibles, and in-network requirements may still apply.

    To learn more about our accepted insurance plans and self-pay rates, visit our Rates & Insurance page.

  • Yes. Your privacy is very important to us. All sessions are conducted on a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform to ensure that your information and conversations remain completely confidential.

  • Find a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable and won't be interrupted. It can help to have a notebook or something to drink nearby, and most importantly… just come as you are! There's no need to prepare anything special.

  • Life happens! If you need to reschedule or cancel, just let us know as soon as possible. Our policy requires 24-hour notice to avoid a late cancellation fee, and we'll always do our best to find a new time that works for you.

  • Most clients start with weekly sessions to build consistency and momentum. As you begin to feel more grounded and confident, we can adjust the frequency to fit your needs and goals.

It’s Time to Take the First Step

If you have more questions or you're ready to schedule your first session, we're here to help. Taking the first step toward therapy is a brave decision, and we're honored to walk alongside you.

Ready to begin? Send an email to schedule your first session or call to learn more.

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