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TELEMENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

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TeleMental Health is the online delivery of mental health services and includes diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy via secure, high-resolution, and live video conferencing. In my experience, online behavioral health treatment is as effective as in person sessions though it may take a little getting used to. 

 

There are also some unique benefits to telehealth services:

 

  • Flexibility in scheduling.

  • Greater privacy; avoid public waiting areas.

  • Improved access to care if we have no local mental health provider.

  • Convenience; telehealth allows us to bypass the commute to an appointment.  

  • Holding a session in a familiar setting may enhance our overall comfort level.

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Potential risks:

 

  • The presence of distractions in our environment.  

  • There may be a risk of privacy violations (that is a risk when we use any technology).

  • Telehealth is not for everyone. Some may find in person treatment a necessary component for healing. 

  • I used a high speed modem, however, there is always the risk of interruptions due to technological glitches.

  • Because of potential issues with technology, it is important to have a back-up plan, like agreeing to switch to a phone.

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Your safety matters to me. TeleMental Health Services are rarely an appropriate treatment modality for high risk clients, clients who are experiencing suicidal thoughts, those with severe mental illness, or who frequently require crisis intervention.

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THE TECHNOLOGY

 

 

Your privacy and the security of your personal information is important to me. We will use a HIPAA compliant platform for all telehealth sessions. You will be able to send and receive secure messages through an easy to use client portal. 

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If you are using a mobile device like a smartphone or iPad for your appointment, ensure you are connected to wifi and not using the mobile carrier's data as this can cause high data usage on your phone bill and also provide a less consistent overall experience with occasional video dropouts.

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Contact me if you are new to Telehealth or have any questions about the technology. 

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The following are some tips to help you prepare for your session: 

 

  • Create a designated area in your home or workplace that provides as much privacy and comfort as possible.

  • Close open windows on your computer and put your phone away and silence it to minimize distractions.

  • Discuss with me what will happen if we get disconnected.

  • Be as close to your router as possible.

  • Anticipate some hiccups. However, most occasional technical issues can be handled with patience and humor.

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