How to Choose the Right Teletherapy: Formats, Privacy, and Best Fit

In recent years, the demand for teletherapy has grown rapidly across the United States. This demand is driven by increased awareness of mental health, improved technology, and the convenience of remote care. More people than ever are turning to online therapy options. However, choosing the right type of teletherapy can be effective. 

The right platform can significantly impact your comfort. It also helps you offer privacy. It ultimately leads to your mental health outcomes. How to choose the right teletherapy: format, privacy, and best fit? This blog will discuss these issues so that you can make an informed, confident decision. Let’s dive in.

What Is Teletherapy?

Teletherapy refers to mental health counseling or psychotherapy. It is usually provided remotely. It is typically via video, phone, or secure messaging/chat platforms. It allows clients to connect with licensed therapists. This is without needing to visit a physical office.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated its adoption, but its popularity has continued to rise due to its flexibility and ease of access.

Key Benefits of Teletherapy:

• Convenience: You must attend sessions from the comfort of your home or any private space.
• Affordability: It is often less expensive than traditional in-person therapy. It will increasingly be covered by insurance.
• Accessibility: It connects with licensed therapists across state lines. It depends on regulations. It widens your options for care.

Teletherapy offers a flexible way. This is to access the support you need. This is whether you’re managing anxiety or depression. One can manage relationship issues or seek personal growth.

Teletherapy Formats Explained

Video Sessions

Video therapy is the most common and closely resembles traditional, in-person sessions.

• Why it works: This enables face-to-face interaction. It makes it easier to build rapport and trust.
• Non-verbal communication: Therapists can observe body language. They consider facial expressions and other visual cues.
• Best for: Individuals, couples, or group therapy settings. This seeks a deeper personal connection.

Phone Therapy

Phone sessions offer a more discreet and accessible option. It is especially when video isn’t practical.

• Why it works: No need for a strong internet connection or camera access.
• Comfort factor: Ideal for those who feel anxious or self-conscious on video.
• Limitations: Lacks visual cues. It may affect communication and emotional interpretation.

Text- or Chat-Based Therapy

These sessions can be live or asynchronous.

• Why it works: It has High flexibility. This responds when it’s convenient for you.
• Best for: People who prefer writing as a form of expression or those with busy schedules.
• Unique benefit: Encourages reflection. It is similar to journaling. This provides a written record of the conversation.

Hybrid Approaches

Many modern teletherapy platforms now offer a mix of formats, such as video + chat or phone + messaging.

• Why it works: It combines the strengths of different communication styles.
• Subscription model: It is often part of flexible, app-based therapy plans.
• Best for: Those who want a real-time connection and ongoing support between sessions.

Privacy and Security in Teletherapy

HIPAA Compliance

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets strict standards for protecting sensitive health information. HIPAA compliance is non-negotiable when choosing a teletherapy provider.

• Why it matters: HIPAA-certified platforms are legally required to use safeguards that protect your personal and medical data.
• What to look for: Platforms should clearly state their HIPAA compliance status. It outlines their data protection measures.
• Example features: Secure logins, data encryption, and storage protocols that meet federal guidelines.

Encryption and Secure Platforms

End-to-end encryption is essential to ensure your communication. This can be with a private therapist who cannot be intercepted.

• Why it matters: Encryption prevents unauthorized access to your session content. It is whether it’s video, audio, or messages.
• Red flags: Be cautious of platforms that use unsecured video chat tools or don’t mention encryption standards. Avoid services that operate over public or unencrypted channels.

Pro tip: Look for services that offer multi-factor authentication and encrypted session logs.

Confidentiality with Therapists

Therapists also play a key role in maintaining confidentiality. This is while platforms are responsible for tech security, 

• What therapists do:
  • You can conduct sessions in private, secure settings
  • You must use headphones. This will ensure no one else overhears your conversation
  • Follow strict ethical guidelines. This helps you maintain client confidentiality.
• What you can do:
  • You must choose a quiet, private room for your session
  • Use headphones or white noise machines for extra discretion
  • Let your therapist know if you’re concerned about being overheard at home

How to Find the Best Fit

Matching Therapy Style with Your Needs

• Popular styles include:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: It’s highly structured and goal-oriented. It often works well in video or phone formats.
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy: This focuses on present-moment awareness. It can work across all formats. It is especially a video or a hybrid.
  • Talk Therapy (Psychodynamic or Humanistic): Best suited for video sessions. This will capture emotional depth and non-verbal communication.

Evaluating Therapist Credentials

• Why it matters:
  • Therapists must be licensed in your state. This way, they can provide care legally.
  • Specializations can enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
• How to verify:
  • Most platforms list licensure information and areas of expertise.
  • You can also check your state’s professional licensing board. This will confirm active credentials.
  • Look for platforms that have strict vetting processes and highlight therapist bios clearly.

Personal Comfort and Convenience

This is even with the right therapist. Practical considerations can make or break your experience.

• Key factors to consider:
  • Scheduling flexibility: Do you need weekend or evening sessions?
  • Location laws: Can you work with a therapist licensed in your state while traveling?
  • Preferred format: Are you more comfortable with video, phone, or messaging?

Cost and Insurance Considerations

Average Teletherapy Costs in the US 

The cost of a teletherapy session can range from $65 to $250 per session. It depends on:

• The therapist’s credentials and experience
• Your location
• Whether you’re paying out-of-pocket or using insurance

Online therapy platforms may offer lower-cost options.

Insurance Coverage and Mental Health Parity Laws

Thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, many health insurance plans are required to offer mental health coverage comparable to physical health services.

• Check your plan: Coverage can vary, so it’s important to verify what’s included. Some plans cover specific platforms or types of therapy only.
• In-network vs. out-of-network: In-network therapists are typically more affordable. But it may have longer wait times.
• Telehealth expansion: Following the pandemic, many insurers have expanded their teletherapy coverage, often including video, phone, and chat sessions.

HSA/FSA Eligibility

Virtual therapy is generally eligible for reimbursement through Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).

• What qualifies: Licensed mental health services, in-person or virtual, are typically covered.

Pro tip: Save receipts and ensure the provider clearly lists their credentials and service type for reimbursement purposes.

Subscription vs. Per-Session Models

Teletherapy pricing models vary by platform:

• Per-session pricing: Traditional model where you pay for each session.
• Subscription-based plans: Common with app-based platforms. It offers a monthly fee that includes messaging, live sessions, or a mix of services.

Choosing the right model:

• A subscription may be a more cost-effective option. This is if you require frequent or ongoing support.
• Pay-per-session may work better. This is if you prefer occasional sessions or want more therapist flexibility.

Quick Comparison Table

Teletherapy Format Comparison Table

Format	Approx. Cost	Privacy Level	Best For
Video	—	High (if HIPAA-compliant)	Building rapport, non-verbal communication, individual or couples therapy
Phone	—	High (very private; no visual data)	Camera-shy clients, low internet access, on-the-go sessions
Chat/Text	(often part of subscription)	Moderate to High (depends on platform security)	Flexibility, journaling-style communication, ongoing support
Hybrid	(usually subscription-based)	High (on trusted platforms)	Those wanting flexibility with real-time + between-session support

Tips for Making Teletherapy Work for You

Set Up a Private, Distraction-Free Space

You must create a dedicated area. This is where you feel safe, comfortable, and free to speak openly.

• You must close doors and then let others know not to disturb you.
• Use headphones for added privacy. This way, you can have clearer communication.
• You must consider a white noise machine or app if privacy is a concern at home.

Prepare Notes or Goals Before Each Session

You must take a few minutes beforehand. This will reflect on what you want to talk about.

• You can jot down key thoughts, emotions, or situations. This way, you’ve experienced since your last session.
• You must identify one or two goals for the session. It keeps the conversation focused and productive.
• Don’t worry if you don’t follow the list—therapy can (and should) be flexible.

Be Open and Consistent with Communication

Building trust in teletherapy takes time and openness.

• You share honestly about what’s working and what isn’t. This must be done with your therapist.
• You don’t hesitate to ask questions. You can request adjustments in format or style.
• You must stay consistent with your sessions — essential for the best results.

Conclusion

Choosing the right teletherapy format is a personal decision. It hinges on your comfort level and privacy concerns. It also affects your mental health goals. Whether you prefer video, phone, text, or a hybrid approach, the expanding variety of options means a fit likely works for you.

Teletherapy is more accessible than ever across the US, breaking down location, cost, and convenience barriers. Beem Health offers a trusted, family-friendly platform that streamlines your journey. If you’re considering teletherapy, take the first step today. Download the app here.