Let’s face it: no one likes going to the doctor. And for kids and teens, therapy can sound kind of scary! Fortunately, telemedicine makes it easy to talk to a doc right from home without ever having to step foot in a waiting room.

Read below to learn how teletherapy makes therapy for kids and teens easy, comfortable, and accessible.

First, let’s explore the basics.

What is teletherapy and how does it work? Virtual therapy sessions work just like in-person sessions, except patients meet with their therapist via video over an electronic device. It feels just like FaceTiming — but with a qualified, licensed therapist instead of a friend.

Therapists meet privately with patients and guide them through the same treatment goals as in-person therapy. Research shows remote therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy, with the added benefit of being able to do appointments from anywhere.

For a more in-depth look at how teletherapy works, read our blog about why you should try teletherapy.

Is therapy important for kids and teens?

These days, it can be hard to be a kid — and especially tough to be a teen! School stress, social problems, even family stuff… it all adds up. In addition, the CDC estimates that 13 – 20 percent of children living in the United States (up to 1 out of 5 children) experience a mental disorder in a given year.

Some of the most common childhood mental disorders are anxiety disorders, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with mental disorders can have problems at home, in school, and in forming friendships without early diagnosis and the right treatment.

Fortunately, online therapy makes it easy for all kids and teens to get the support they need.

Here’s a better look at how teletherapy can help kids, pre-teens and teens.

Teletherapy offers all the same benefits of regular therapy, but it’s less scary and intimidating than going to a doctor. Sessions are convenient to schedule and easy to attend — before school, after school, any time — and can be done from home, where kids are most comfortable. With flexible scheduling, kids get the support they need when they need it.

Teletherapy is a great fit for younger kids, especially children with shorter attention spans. Virtual appointments can be done directly over a tablet, computer, or other digital device where therapists can still use all the same exercises and tools as they would during in-person therapy. Whether a child is struggling at school, at home, or with peers, child teletherapy offers a safe place to express feelings and learn new coping strategies.

For pre-teens, privacy is key — so it’s important they have a private space where they feel comfortable taking appointments. Online therapy provides pre-teens a confidential place to work through problems that can lead to poor performance or cause kids to engage in bad behavioral.

Teletherapy can also help teens manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other overwhelming emotions. Flexible appointments are easy to work around busy school schedules and extracurriculars, and they help teens learn the tools they need to become mature and responsible adults.

Get started with teletherapy.

The younger years can be a challenge for both parents and their children. Be Well Counseling provides a team of professional, well-trained doctors and therapists dedicated to every family’s well-being.

Our teletherapy appointments give kids and teens a safe place to grow and work through their feelings and issues. We help kids and teens with strategies that help the whole family.

Make an appointment now to get started, or contact us to find out more.