
Online Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
with Marina Stanton, LMFT, CST
Frequently Asked Questions about Online Therapy
(aka “Yes, you can totally do therapy in yoga pants”)
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Online therapy—also called telehealth—lets us meet face-to-face over secure video from anywhere in Colorado, Texas, Utah, or Washington. I use a platform called SimplePractice, which works on your laptop, phone, tablet—whatever you’ve got.
You get all the benefits of therapy without the commute, the traffic, or the awkward waiting room small talk. Just log in, settle in, and let’s get to work.
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Yep. Life is full—and sometimes the car is the only quiet space you’ve got. As long as you have privacy, a good connection, and can stay put (no driving!), I’m good with it. Just try to find a parked spot where you won’t be distracted or interrupted.
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If you're doing couples therapy, it’s ideal to be in the same room. You catch more nonverbals, and it helps us work more effectively on connection. That said, if being together isn’t possible, I can still work with you remotely. Just give me a heads-up—we may use Google Meet instead of SimplePractice to make it easier.
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Here’s what you’ll need for a smooth session:
A smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop with a camera and microphone
A stable, high-speed internet connection (WiFi > 4 bars is best)
A quiet, private space—bonus points if it has a door that shuts
If you’re using a phone, download the Telehealth by SimplePractice app (iOS or Android). No app needed on a computer—just click your link and go.
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Before your first session, you’ll get a welcome email with your portal login—bookmark it!
10 minutes before each session, you’ll get a reminder with your video link. Click it.
Run a quick mic/camera check, hit “Join Video Call,” and you’re in.
If I’m wrapping up with another client, just hang tight—I’ll be right with you.
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If SimplePractice acts up, we’ll pivot to Google Meet—also private, HIPAA-compliant, and just as easy. I’ll send you a quick link and we’ll pick up right where we left off.
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Very. Online sessions are just as confidential as in-person sessions. The platform is HIPAA-compliant, encrypted, and secure. And I always recommend you find a quiet, private space on your end too—so you can speak freely without worrying about who might overhear.
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You don’t need candles and soft music (unless that’s your thing), but you do want a space where you won’t be interrupted.
Close doors/windows
Mute your notifications
Let roommates/kids/pets know you're not to be disturbed
Use headphones if privacy is a concern
You deserve this time to focus on you.
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Internet speed matters. Run the SimplePractice internet test before your first session.
Bring a notebook. You might want to jot down insights or homework.
Treat it like in-person therapy. Show up on time, be fully present, and be ready to dive in.