Precautions For Taking Telehealth Therapy

Mental health issues are one of the major concerns of this generation. A survey shows over 9.5% of adults are depressed and anxious. The most shocking news is that the number of depressed women is twice as much as that of men. The reasons for depression could vary based on the situation and circumstances. The number of depressed people has escalated to 30% after the pandemic. 

This article will discuss telehealth therapy's benefits and what to consider when getting telehealth therapy. First, we will start with the benefits of telehealth therapy.

Benefits of Telehealth Therapy Over In-Person Therapy:

1) It is Convenient: 

Convenience is one of the significant benefits that urges people to go for telehealth therapy instead of in person. The patient does not have to commute to the clinic and bear the heavy traffic or does not have to take leave from work to attend the session. It just requires a mobile phone through which you can dial the number of the therapist. 

2) Less Expensive than In-Person Therapy: 

The cost of in-person therapy is much higher than that of telehealth therapy. As telehealth is cost-effective, patients often consider it to improve their mental health. Moreover, since most treatments are not covered by insurance, taking in-person medicine burns a hole in the patient's pocket. Some consultants offer weekly or monthly telehealth therapy packages, making it easier for the client to afford, and some percentage reduces the cost. 

3) People Feel Comfortable in Online Communication: 

As technology has taken over the world, communication has become more accessible. Young adults who often use email, social media apps, and other communication apps and software, find it easier to communicate over the phone. They comfortably share their problems without any hesitation. While in in-person therapy, patients lack confidence and cannot share comfortably. Thus, telehealth has eradicated the communication gap between the patient and the consultant.

4) Accessible to Everyone: 

Patients who don't have access to therapy clinics struggle to get to the clinic, especially those who live in rural areas. Moreover, people with disabilities or severe illnesses find it hard to travel to the clinic. Telehealth therapy has made their lives easier by introducing telehealth services where they can consult with the therapist over the phone. This service also allows patients to schedule flexible plans according to their daily routines. So the stress of commuting to the clinic is no more. 

Things to Consider While Acquiring Telehealth Therapy: 

1) Ask Yourself if Telehealth is for You: 

There is no doubt that telehealth has made things easier for patients, but if you are planning to get telehealth therapy, ask yourself if telehealth is for you or not. There is no authentic news about telehealth therapy being the most effective treatment method. You never know; telehealth therapy might work for someone else but now for you. You have to figure out if this is going to work for you or not. You may not be good at communicating over the phone or texting. 

2) Consult a licensed therapist: 

License is the most significant element for a therapist and the patient. The field of therapy has grown exponentially in the last few years. People with experience have claimed to be therapists without any license. 

3) Is the Website Secure: 

Look for authentic websites or safe and secure platforms. In-house therapy is conducted in a separate room where no one is allowed other than the therapist and the patient. This allows the patient to openly share their emotions, feelings, problems, and harrowing stories. What happens in the room remains there, and no one has the authority to dig into the details of the session. So to be safe, make sure the platform you use for telehealth therapy must be HIPAA-compliant and have the ability to verify the identities of both patient and the therapist. 

4) Payment Method of the Therapy: 

Insurance companies cover the expenses of mental disorders. The procedure for payment is that your therapist gives you an invoice which you deliver to your insurance company, and they reimburse you the amount you invested for your therapy. In the case of telehealth therapy, the scenario is entirely different. Insurance companies do not cover telehealth therapy. You need to contact your telehealth service provider if you plan to reimburse.

Preparing For Telehealth Therapy: 

•  Prepare yourself: Test the platform first that you are going to use for your telehealth session.

• Consent documents: Gather the relevant documents you might need for your therapy. 

Conclusion: 

Telehealth therapy is considered to be the future of health counseling. Patients with mental health issues prefer telehealth therapy because it is more convenient for them. You can look for professionals on the internet who provide telehealth services. The most significant benefit of telehealth therapy is you don't have to travel to the consultancy clinic. All can be done on your smartphone.