“How does teletherapy work?”
TELETHERAPY: ACCESSIBLE THERAPY OPTIONS
Teletherapy commonly refers to mental health counseling services that are offered virtually online (or over the phone). Mental health providers have begun offering teletherapy to their clients enabling long-distance therapeutic and mental healthcare services.
To use teletherapy, you only need a phone, tablet, or computer. Examples of a teletherapy session are:
phone-in sessions
video therapy sessions
With the use of smartphones, tablets, and laptops, (which most people already have access to) getting mental health treatment online, anytime has never been easier! Advancements in modern video-conferencing technology have made it possible for mental health care practitioners and our clients to overcome geographic or other physically limiting barriers that previously would’ve kept a lot of people from being able to reach out for help.
FIVE Advantages of Teletherapy
Teletherapy treatment has many great advantages over traditional mental health counseling services. There were even instances, such as during the pandemic, in which the benefits of online therapeutic counseling far outweighed the benefits of traditional counseling. Teletherapy can be very beneficial in the following ways:
Enables Convenient and Accessible Mental Health Care
One of the primary advantages of teletherapy is the increased accessibility to treatment. If you have a busy schedule, limited mobility, no mode of transportation, or if you live in a rural part of Mississippi–anywhere in the state of Mississippi, you can still receive get focused mental health attention through KMC Counseling’s teletherapy option.
Teletherapy has been especially helpful for those who have been exposed to COVID-19 and are under quarantine. Clients have been able to continue the cadence of their sessions from home without the worry of interruption in treatment.
Reduces the Shortage of Mental Health Services
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ONE in FIVE American adults lives with a mental illness… that’s roughly 46.6 million people (as of 2017). Of those people, less than 50% received mental health services, for varying reasons. A common issue seen in the mental health industry is an overwhelming lack of qualified mental healthcare providers. In a recent report by the National Council of Behavioral Health, it was found that there is a national shortage of mental health providers in 77% of U.S. counties.
In a more classic clinical therapeutic setting, fewer providers would mean fewer appointment slots available for clients, regardless of how many may need help at a given time. As provider’s waitlists grew, people were just left to wait for a call to let them when they could be worked into one of the few open time slots available.Teletherapy came in and changed the game, opening opportunities for providers and those most in need to meet when and where possible. This works by providing a direct connection between a licensed mental health provider and a client who is in need of treatment (regardless of where the person lives or their transportation status).
So as long as you are here within the state of Mississippi, you can live hundreds of miles away from our office in Jackson and you can still receive regularly scheduled treatment, where you otherwise might not have any local options.Upholds Client Privacy and Improves Comfort
Another reason less than half of those who suffer from mental health illnesses might not look for treatment options is because of the stigma that still surrounds the topic of mental health. It’s a safe assumption that some people might possibly have a concern about being seen entering or leaving a therapist’s office.
Using teletherapy services, however, the need to visit a physical office location is minimal or eliminated altogether. You can attend therapy sessions from the privacy of your own home by calling -in or clicking on a video conferencing link. Therapy never felt so approachable…simply click a link from the comfort of YOUR safe space and your therapist is RIGHT THERE to meet you.
Being in a familiar environment certainly has its perks too, when it comes to. feeling more invited to open up while in session! When you feel more secure and safe in your environment, you’re more likely to open up about your issues honestly and openly–whether it’s anxiety, depression, or other related issues, it all becomes much easier to address from your own safe space.
Helps Augment Overall Health Quality
Addressing mental health concerns can make a positive impact on your overall health. The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” By this definition, we can assume that without a sense of mental health stability, one cannot be truly healthy.
One study available on the CDC website found an increase in chronic diseases such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer among those who also face mental illnesses, such as depressive disorders. This demonstrates the vital role that mental health plays in overall well-being.
Telehealth services can also facilitate the collaboration between practitioners, leading to the possibility of an even more accurate diagnosis. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, telehealth services allowed the most rural clinicians to gain new and vital expertise and to provide more effective evidence-based healthcare to their communities. Because of their ability to consult with specialists in bigger cities.
Enhances Patient and Provider Satisfaction
Telehealth simply makes it easier for you to stay healthy and receive care for your specific conditions more consistently. Telehealth is part of what makes it possible for us to focus on the best client experience possible. Telehealth allows us to meet you where you are, literally, and bring solutions to you. Mental health services have never been so accessible!
It’s time for you to take control of your mental health and you too can enjoy all the benefits of a teletherapeutic treatment approach…such as convenience, flexibility, privacy, and real-time care from your therapist at KMC Counseling.
If you’re still not sure...that’s ok, send me an email and let me know you’re here and I’ll reach out to help you.
