In addition to my in-person practice in midtown Manhattan, I offer online psychotherapy to people throughout New York state using Zoom, which is HIPAA-compliant software free of charge to the user. Zoom can be used on any computer or smartphone. Just download the app (link here) and sign up for a free account.

Teletherapy is very much like using Skype or FaceTime. Here are a few things that will make things go smoothly.

• It’s best when everyone uses headphones and a microphone. You don’t need those fancy headsets that sportscasters use. Even simple earbuds with an attached mic—the kind of thing that comes free with an iPhone—will improve your experience in a significant way.

• Turn off notifications. You don’t want texts and calls interrupting therapy.

• The quality of your internet connection is important. If your WiFi isn’t terrific, try plugging your computer directly into your router if you can. Also, it’s a good idea to reset your router and modem on a regular basis. Unplug them both for thirty seconds and then plug them back in—first the modem, then the router.

• Consider lighting. If there is a window or room light behind your head, your face will be in darkness. Better to face the light source so that the person on the other end can see you.

People are often intimidated by technology. And of course the increased anxiety surrounding the coronavirus doesn’t make it easier. If you need help with any aspect of therapy, I will work with you to make the experience as painless as possible.

An old ad campaign used to say that talking on the phone is “the next best thing to being there.” Staying connected in a time of social distancing is crucial, and teletherapy promotes the human contact that we all need to survive and thrive.