Telehealth Mental Health Services

What Are the Benefits of Telehealth Mental Health Treatment?

There are numerous benefits to using this method of care to support your recovery efforts. Some of the most common reasons people turn to virtual mental health care as an alternative to a mental health hospital or outpatient care include:

It’s Convenient

Virtual visits mean you do not have to drive to any location to see a doctor or mental health provider in person. This makes your care more readily available when you are. Instead of planning time to drive to a treatment center, wait for your appointment, and then drive back, you can call in or log in right before your appointment, get the care you need, and get back to your day. This means care fits into most people’s schedules.

It’s Flexible

Virtual care like this can help with a variety of mental health disorders, and it may be possible for you to get support when you may not have been willing to do so in person. You can schedule your appointment with less notice, meaning faster service is often possible. Many providers also offer extended care schedules, treating patients for more hours of the day. This could mean getting care when it fits your needs, including around work or school, or other responsibilities.

It’s Accessible to More People

For those who are unable to travel to reach a mental health practitioner, telehealth services can be more accessible. For example, if you cannot drive to a location or do not have transportation to get there, you can still log in and have an appointment as long as you can reach your provider over the phone or the internet. This makes care possible even for those who live in remote areas who otherwise do not have access.

It’s More Comfortable

Some people find that receiving care at home is just easier to do. You may feel less pressure, or you may not feel like you are in a scary environment. Though mental health care should never seem worrisome, for many, appointments like this are simply challenging. With virtual care, you may find support that’s easier to step into, no matter what your challenges are.

What Types of Mental Health Disorders Can Be Treated Through Telehealth Services?

Many types of mental health treatment can happen through telehealth services. Ultimately, the severity of your symptoms and mental health treatment needs determines the level of care provided. Some of the types of mental health disorders treatable through virtual mental health care include:

• Attention-deficiency/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Anxiety
• Depressive disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Mood disorders

Many times, an initial assessment by a provider will provide insight into whether one treatment or another is best suited for your needs. The first step is to contact us to learn more about the level and type of care available to fit your needs.

You can also take our mental health quizzes to learn more about the treatment options available that could suit your needs.

What to Expect During Telehealth Mental Health Treatment

Every appointment is a bit different, based on your needs. There are a few specific elements you can expect during this process. That includes:

• You’ll connect with a therapist through the pre-planned appointment in the manner you chose. This could be over the phone or via video conference, in most cases.
• Your therapist will talk to you, asking questions and learn as much as they can about you and the mental health symptoms you have.
• You’ll receive one-on-one therapy through various treatment types. This could include treatment like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, or other strategies designed to support your treatment plan.
• Medication management may occur depending on your symptoms and the medical accessibility of your care. Your doctor may prescribe to you, depending on their license to do so, as well as monitor your progress on those medications over time.
• Your provider will track the care you receive, the progress you are making, and all follow-up appointment goals. This is always a two-way conversation. That means you should ask for anything you need.

These appointments happen with the full confidence of safety and privacy. It is much like sitting in an appointment room with your provider to have a conversation. Make sure you create a safe, quiet environment at home to engage in your session.

Some of the types of care provided during these sessions include:

• Individual therapy: You’ll work one-on-one with your care provider to work on your specific needs, symptoms, and goals.
• Group therapy: This is an opportunity to work as a group with peers who may be facing similar situations as you are, often for educational and real-world situation support.
• Psychiatry: For those who are just starting out, evaluations and diagnoses are often a component of your care. Your document may prescribe medications and will create a treatment plan.
• Support: You’ll get support for mental health disorders and substance abuse, based on the symptoms you have. Mood monitoring and, in some cases, crisis support are provided.

If you are ready to find a way to move your future forward and take control over your mental health, but you do not want to or cannot attend in-person treatment, try virtual care. Telehealth mental health treatment is very real and highly effective, creating the opportunity for you to move forward with your health.

Telehealth Options for Mental Health FAQ

What type of technology do I need to use telehealth care?

Telehealth may require just a phone connection. Video services may help as well. There is no complex software needed.

Can I meet with a mental health provider virtually for the first time?

This depends on your symptoms and the severity of your conditions. In many situations, an initial appointment is virtually possible and could be a starting point. If you need more advanced care, your provider will help you get it.

How long do I need telehealth mental health treatment?

There’s no time limit on how long you may need and benefit from care. Most people benefit from care over the long term, and that means continuing to work with your treatment provider to receive the support you need until you wish to make a change.