How does teletherapy work?
Our online platform uses secure video conferencing to enable face-to-face conversations. The video call is completely secure (HIPAA-protected) and confidential, and nothing is recorded or kept in any way. When you schedule an appointment, you will be sent an email with a secure link enabling you (and only you) to connect by video at the time of your appointment.
What you need:
- Internet connection (with enough bandwidth to support a video conference call)
- A computer, tablet, or smartphone
- A quiet, private, and well-lit space with no distractions
- A set of headphones or earbuds (if you prefer)
Who do you see?
Anyone who resides in the state of California State can engage in our offered services. We also offer services in Spanish!
Telehealth services can be used for assessment, as a supplement to in-person therapy, for ongoing therapy, or used occasionally as needed.
Can we use Skype, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Facetime?
At Mahulia Psychotherapy, your privacy is important to us. As such, these common platforms are not used as they are not HIPAA secure, putting your privacy at risk. We have a private, confidential system in use to ensure you are protected.
What if I’m not tech-savvy?
Please feel free to reach out to us for assistance if technology causes you to pause in any way. We have many clients who are not confident in their computer skills who use our services with minimal challenges. Additionally, our video platform offers customer service representatives who can walk you through any problems that may come up. Additionally we do offer limited in-person sessions at our private office in Bakersfield, CA for local individuals.
Is online therapy effective?
- A 2014 study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in treating anxiety disorders.1
- A 2013 study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that online treatment for depression was equally as effective as in-person therapy.2
- A 2018 study in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was equally as effective as in-person treatment for major depression, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.3
Is therapy confidential?
At Mahulia, our clinicians are licensed mental health professionals in the state of California following strict licensing regulations, state laws, and HIPAA regulations that ensuring security and confidentiality.
Will my insurance company cover online counseling?
The majority of health insurers now cover telehealth as part of their standard mental health benefit. You’ll want to call your health insurance company to find out how much your out-of-pocket costs will be.
How much does it cost?
At Mahulia, our clinicians are licensed mental health professionals in the state of California with varying levels of education. As such, cost per session varies among our clinicians and we do offer a sliding scale for services based on insurance as well as income.
Please reach out to us today to discuss cost per session. CMS published Guidance on Good Faith Estimates (GFEs) for Uninsured (or Self-Pay) Individuals – Parts 3 and 4. Part 3 clarifies that HHS is extending enforcement discretion, pending future rulemaking, for situations where GFEs for uninsured (or self-pay) individuals do not include expected charges from co-providers or co-facilities. Part 4 provides additional guidance for providers that offer sliding fee discounts as well as additional guidance for providers who do not expect to charge. More information can be found at this link:
https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises
Okay, but I have a job, when can I be seen?
We get it! At Maluhia, we offer night and weekend appointments to fit your schedule!
How do I get started?
Just click the “Let’s get in touch” button on the home page to complete our contact form. One of our clinicians will get back to you within 48 to 72 hours. During the follow up, you can expect a few brief questions regarding the nature of your reason for seeking therapy, and answering any questions you might have. We will get your first appointment scheduled and discuss next steps.