Two Chairs Online Therapy: A Personal Review from a Therapist's Perspective

Introduction

I, as a practicing therapist, recently explored Two Chairs, an online therapy platform that promises personalized therapist matches for clients. Many of my clients have shown interest in Kaiser Permanente insurance coverage, and I wanted to expand my referral options. Here's an in-depth review of my experience with Two Chairs, including insights into the matching process, online therapy sessions, and an analysis of the platform's advantages and drawbacks.

Signing Up with Two Chairs

Enrolling with Two Chairs was straightforward and convenient. Their user-friendly website allowed me to book an appointment, where I provided basic information, preferences for therapist attributes (age, gender, race/ethnicity, and religious/spiritual orientation), and the type of therapy I sought. Additionally, I shared any diagnosed or exhibited symptoms.

The Therapist Matching Process

A critical component of Two Chairs' service is the therapist matching appointment. This 45-minute session involves engaging with a licensed clinician who carefully seeks to understand my preferences and therapeutic needs. I appreciated the thorough intake questionnaire and the therapist's thoughtful questions. However, I was taken aback by the hefty price tag of $260 for this initial consultation, which seemed significantly higher than other online therapy platforms.

Beginning Therapy Sessions

After the matching process, I was paired with a therapist who appeared to match my stated preferences. Our first session took place via video call on Zoom, lasting 45 minutes. The therapist diligently outlined confidentiality and practice policies, and we delved into my history, support system, lifestyle, and current stressors. I valued her emphasis on boundary-setting and establishing a therapeutic rapport.

Reflections and Considerations

While the matching process was comprehensive and the assigned therapist displayed competence, I found the initial session to be somewhat clinical, with a focus on symptom reduction rather than a holistic exploration of my experiences and concerns. Furthermore, the cost of therapy at Two Chairs, including both the matching appointment and subsequent sessions, seemed considerably high.

Analyzing the Pros and Cons of Two Chairs

Based on my hands-on involvement with Two Chairs, here's a detailed analysis of its strengths and weaknesses:

Advantages: - Commendable racial diversity among therapists - Availability of therapy sessions in languages other than English - Flexibility to switch therapists if necessary - Acceptance of Kaiser Permanente insurance

Disadvantages: - Lengthy waiting period to start therapy - High session fees, especially for the initial matching appointment - Matching appointment perceived as hurried and lacking depth - Assigned therapist not entirely aligned with my ideal fit - Limited insurance coverage

Concluding Remarks

Two Chairs carries a noble mission and holds significant potential, yet my personal experience brought forth mixed feelings. The matching process, while thorough, was burdened by the excessive cost of the matching appointment, and the initial session did not fully meet my expectations. The focus on symptoms rather than the individual seemed to contradict my preferences.

Based on my experience, I would refrain from wholeheartedly recommending Two Chairs to my clients. However, I recognize the uniqueness of each individual's journey, and there may be those who find the platform beneficial. If considering Two Chairs, be prepared for a lengthy wait, potential out-of-pocket expenses, and the possibility of not immediately finding an ideal match. During the matching appointment, be assertive and specific in expressing your preferences to enhance the likelihood of a successful match.