We are here for you.
Prospect Therapy temporarily closed our physical offices during the safe-at-home order in California. We want to support the health and safety of the general public, while still prioritizing the emotional care of our clients.
For many people, home is not a comforting place.
The reality of the quarantine is particularly stressful for those whose families are not supportive, whose relationships are strained, and who rely on social connection to cope with anxiety and depression.
Admist all the changes, at least one thing hasn't changed: We are as committed as ever to providing high-quality therapeutic care.
This includes expanding our online therapy capacity to serve the influx of individuals, teens, couples and families who are struggling as a result of the pandemic and the related changes to their routines.
You can have your session from the comfort and privacy of your home, car, or other location of your choice.
Does online therapy work? Is it as effective as a session in the office?
Yes, online therapy is as effective as a session in the office. All of our therapists are specially trained to connect with you personally via video, and understand how to maximize the benefits of an online session.
Research shows that a high-quality, two-way, teletherapy platform like the one we use is just as effective for clients as a session in the office.
Many people find the convenience of a video appointment appealing, as they don’t have to commute to and from their appointment, and enjoy more flexibility in scheduling.
Prospect Therapy has been providing confidential online therapy appointments since 2018. Each of our therapists is equipped with a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. A small percentage of our local clients have been using this option since that time, as well as clients throughout the state of California who prefer to work with us but can’t travel to our offices.
what is online therapy like? How does it work?
This is not texting with a chatbot or exchanging messages online. This is a real-time, two-way, confidential video session between you and your therapist. Your appointment begins and ends at the time you schedule. We only meet with you and there are no interruptions.
You do not have to download or install any software. You can use your computer, tablet, or cell phone. All you need is internet access. For those without reliable internet access, we are offering full-length phone sessions.
There is also an option to cover your video camera if seeing yourself on screen makes you uncomfortable for any reason. You will still be able to see your therapist with this option.
Is online therapy private?
Yes, we use a HIPAA-compliant, secure and confidential platform. It’s more secure and encrypted than Skype or Zoom. Therapists are legally and ethically required to use additional security measures to ensure your confidentiality.
Tips for your online therapy appointment
Make sure you are in a private location. If you are home with your family, you can have your session in the car, or take a stroll around your neighborhood.
Use headphones to protect the privacy of what your therapist says to you.
Use a white noise machine/radio/TV on outside your room to further protect your side of the conversation.
If you are having your session on your phone, your data or wifi connection is usually sufficient.
If you are using a laptop or tablet, some people use their phone’s hotspot connection to boost their internet, although this isn’t usually necessary. It can help to place your device near your router, or even use a hard-wire ethernet cord.
Pets are welcome to join your appointment too! Having your furry friend with you can help reduce anxiety and make the session more comfortable for you.