The direct answer

Rumi Counseling offers virtual therapy in Maryland and Virginia by appointment. Whether online sessions are appropriate for you requires a conversation about your needs. Virtual therapy does not replace medical evaluation, nutrition services, or a more intensive treatment setting when those are needed. [1]

What should I ask before booking?

Tell the practice where you will physically be during sessions and ask it to confirm eligibility, availability, and treatment fit. If you travel, attend college out of state, or move between households, raise that before arranging ongoing appointments.

Ask: ‘What parts of my care can happen by video?’ ‘Which appointments would need to happen in person?’ and ‘How would you coordinate with a medical provider near me?’ An online appointment is one possible part of a care plan, not a guarantee that every service can be delivered remotely.

How can I make a session more private?

HHS recommends a private location, a personal device when possible, and avoiding public Wi-Fi. Headphones can help when privacy is limited. Turn off nearby devices that could record or overhear the conversation, and keep your device security updates current. Ask your provider for help with the technology when needed. [2]

Before the visit, consider whether someone might enter the room, whether your screen is visible to others, and whether you can speak freely. Tell the therapist if the setting is not private enough; ask what alternatives are available.

What happens if video is not a good fit?

Ask about in-person options and what a different care arrangement would involve. Rumi Counseling sees patients by appointment at 7700 Old Georgetown Road, Suite 675, Bethesda, MD 20814, and 1737 King St, Suite 330, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Confirm the location and format when scheduling. You can also ask what to do if the connection fails and how to obtain urgent help between visits. A consultation request is not a confirmed appointment or an emergency service.

Explore care at Rumi Counseling

Sources & further reading

  1. NIMH: Eating disorders—treatment and care
  2. HHS: Telehealth privacy and security tips for patients

General education, not a diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about your situation. If you suspect a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency care.