the dystopian reality of virtual therapy in 2026
Insurance companies, venture capitalists, chatbots, oh boy!
I’ve been working in this field since 2011 and I promise it didn’t used to be an episode of The Amazing Digital Circus! I agree that it definitely is now. So, while I still have a mouth, I’m screaming.
Being a therapist in 2026 has become strikingly similar to being in an abusive relationship
One of my therapist communities that strives to empower therapists to recover from the systems we find ourselves in and build a sustainable business that serves both our clients while not killing us or asking us to live a life of poverty, posted this article today and I am FLOORED!
The Power and Control Wheel of the United States Insurance System adapted by Miranda Palmer, LMFT and Kelly Hidgeon, LMFT is based on Coral McDonnell, and Michael Paymar at the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project (DAIP) in Duluth, Minnesota.
The original model illustrated the power and control used by the partners of women who had been battered. The women were asked to describe the tactics used by their partners that made it difficult for them to leave. The original model includes strategies such as intimidation, emotional abuse, isolation, coercion and threats, economic abuse, gender privilege and the couple’s children as ways abusers maintain power and control of their victims.
Kelly and Miranda’s version speaks to the lived experience of therapists they have coached in private practice over the last 20 years. They detail how a profession of helpers has been exploited systemically and why so many of us are stuck or quit.
I myself am returning to my practice after extended time off due to family, health and other challenges. I've have been wondering where to start to redesign my practice that is mindful of all of the changes and “advancements” happening around virtual care. In doing so, I have come up with some considerations for people seeking psychotherapy in NYC in 2026.
What can the average therapy-seeker do when seeking mental health counseling that is ethical, private, and as least predatory possible given the systems available right now?
Consider the following:
Are you someone who likes to carefully consider what you’re investing in/divesting from?
Are you comfortable with the use of AI recording your therapy sessions? AND does the clinician you’re meeting with have control of the content, or does it belong to a larger company with LOTS of small print?
Look into who owns the company you’re searching through — does an insurance company own it? Why that's a red flag.
Are you okay with your therapist likely finding out the platform you found them on sucks and having to reestablish care with a new fresh provider who hasn’t realized yet?
Is it possible for you to budget for care that is uniquely designed for to your needs and privacy expectations?
Are you looking for expert Anxiety Therapy in New York or New Jersey who cares A LOT about this?
Until next time,
be well!
♥ Desiree
