Virtual Counseling (Telehealth)
Prioritizing your mental health shouldn't require fighting traffic, taking extensive time off work, or struggling to find a specialist in your immediate local area. At North Star Counseling and Trauma Specialists, we believe that high-quality, trauma-informed care should be accessible to everyone in the state.
That is why we offer secure, comprehensive virtual counseling (telehealth) services to clients across Minnesota. Whether you live in the Twin Cities metro or a rural community hours away, you can access our expert clinicians from the comfort and privacy of your own space.
The Convenience of Telehealth
Virtual counseling eliminates the geographic and logistical barriers that often prevent people from getting the help they need. It allows you to:
- Save Time: Fit sessions into your day without the commute.
- Increase Comfort: Engage in deep therapeutic work from an environment where you already feel safe and grounded.
- Access Specialists: Work with our highly trained trauma, EMDR, and affirming care specialists, even if you do not live near our Minnetonka office.
How It Works
Our virtual counseling platform is simple to use and strictly HIPAA-compliant, ensuring your sessions are completely private and secure. Before your appointment, you will receive a secure link. At the scheduled time, you simply click the link from your computer, tablet, or smartphone to join your counselor in a private virtual room.
Is Virtual Trauma Therapy Effective?
Yes. Extensive research and our own clinical experience show that telehealth is highly effective for a wide range of mental health concerns, including severe trauma.
We successfully conduct specialized treatments like EMDR Therapy and Brainspotting virtually. We use specialized software to provide the necessary bilateral stimulation during online EMDR sessions, allowing you to experience the full benefits of the therapy remotely.
Benefits Of Telehealth Counseling
- Elimination of travel time and costs - Easily fit a session into your busy workday or family schedule without the stress of navigating traffic or taking time off from work.
- Emotional comfort and privacy - Engaging in vulnerable conversations from home can lower initial anxiety and foster a sense of security.
- Greater access to specialized care - Expands access for clients to work with expert providers who may not be located within driving distance.
Benefits of telehealth often outweigh any risks. It provides you with an excellent alternative to in-person sessions that is just as effective. At North Star Counseling and Trauma Specialists, we will do
Risks Of Telehealth Counseling
- Not suitable for high risk situations - As examples, clients experiencing suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or paranoia are not recommended for virtual counseling.
- Privacy - Being at home may not be as private as a counseling office.
- Cyber security issues or interrupted internet service - While unlikely, online services could be hacked or internet services can fail.
All of these can be mitigated with a good plan on how to deal with each of these potentials. At North Star Counseling and Trauma Specialists, we do our absolute best to account for each issue and help you navigate the best possible scenario for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Therapy
Does Virtual Counseling Work?
Research and client feedback show telehealth provides effective, evidence-based care and produces similar results to in-person care.
How Secure is Telehealth Counseling?
We use SimplePractie for our electronic health records and telehealth platform. SimplePractice meets and exceeds HIPAA standards, ensuring all sessions and personal information remain confidential and protected with advanced encryption.
Can I choose a therapist who specializes in trauma or specific issues?
Yes, we carefully match you with a therapist who is trained to best help you with your specific needs and can provide excellent care through virtual sessions.
What technology do I need to participate in telehealth sessions?
You only need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer, along with a stable internet connection to join sessions securely.
Can I switch between in-person and virtual sessions?
Yes. If you live near our Minnetonka office but occasionally need the convenience of telehealth, you can discuss a hybrid approach with your counselor.
Start Your Telehealth Journey from Anywhere in MN
Distance should not dictate your healing. Contact us today to ask about telehealth options and schedule your first virtual session and connect with a therapist who understands your path to healing.