In the past year, the need for therapy services has increased exponentially. Whether it’s because people recognized they needed more help or more people truly needed support remains unclear. But that people sought help is a step in the right direction. Even when the pandemic kept people apart, therapy continued via remote practices.
What Are Telehealth Services?
Telehealth is when medical professionals use digital information and communication technologies to access and manage a patient’s health care. Tools such as computers, mobile devices, secure programs, and video equipment bring telehealth mental health services to life. Telehealth counseling has been proven to lead to better patient care outcomes because it provides more touchpoints and check-in opportunities. It also provides the following:
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Telehealth counseling for college students
- Access to health records online
- Email and text reminders of appointments
- Online ordering and delivery of medical supplies
- Ability to keep records and track progress via apps
- Real-time shared communication between patient and provider
- Accessible health care even in remote locations
- Improved communication between members of a health care team
Access
Before virtual therapy, specific populations couldn’t access what they needed quickly. From disabled persons to college students to those that live in remote locations, treatment wasn’t readily available to everyone. But virtual therapy can be done from anywhere and with anyone. This ease of access makes it more likely that anyone in therapy will continue with it. And there are the comforts of home, where you only have to answer the phone or log on versus going through the often arduous tasks of getting out of bed, getting dressed, and driving to a location for treatment.
Privacy & Safety
Not having to go into an office or therapy center provides two additional benefits: the care is more private, and people are less prone to health and safety issues. You won’t risk seeing someone you know, and you don’t have to wear a mask to see your therapist. There aren’t weather delays or traffic jams to contend with. And there aren’t any distractions during driving to lead to dangerous situations.
Efficiency
Because time is something people often wish they had more of, not having to waste it getting to the appointment is helpful. It also reduces anxiety in those struggling with it. Time is more productive, it’s easier to transition from one client to the next, and even rescheduling can be easier with the saved time online therapy provides.
Flexibility
For those over-committed or that have numerous obligations, teletherapy provides much-needed flexibility. If there is limited time between activities, therapy can be done from the car. Counselors may be more flexible with their appointment times since they don’t have to stick to their regular office hours. And emergencies or check-ins can be more readily available because of virtual availability.
Cost
Sometimes, online therapy is more cost-effective, and insurance is now required to cover it. With less overhead, providers may reduce their rates. This is especially helpful for clients that do not have insurance. Costs also go down for transportation, parking, and other travel costs to and from a session.
Get the Mental Health Therapy You Need Virtually at Sunstone Recovery
Mental health struggles do not need to go untreated. If you or someone you know is feeling the strain of a mental health disorder, there is help available. Sunstone Recovery is a fully remote intensive outpatient program and dual diagnosis facility that focuses on treating mental health and substance use challenges for adults. Our virtual therapy programs offer effective, convenient solutions for the adults in the program. Call us today at 855.833.9199 or contact us online for more information.
