What is telehealth?  Is telehealth or teletherapy right for me?

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Telehealth and teletherapy are ways that individuals can access healthcare and therapy.  For our sessions, I use HIPAA compliant software and practices such as live video and phone for electronic communication and secure and private office space.  Telehealth can be used for many benefits, such as having access and equity in counseling support, having the convenience ant time, reducing the stigma that may be associated in some areas, and saving time in you overall day.  Additionally, research has found that therapeutic outcomes are just as evident and successful in telehealth sessions as they are in person.  

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But the real questions is, are you ready?  Are you willing to try, to give yourself the time, self care and space you deserve?

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In true counselor fashion, I want to compare the Pros & Cons of telehealth.  Please feel free to message me if you think I should add anything!

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Benefits/Pros                                                                           Cons

Access                                                                                     No -or- less in person interactions

Equity                                                                                      Not intended for crisis situations

Can get to counseling even if not in town

Can get to counseling even if no therapists in your area

People who are homebound can participate

Those who's family may not approve can still participate

Those who want more control over privacy & confidentiality can participate

Less time out of work/school

Ease and flexibility of appointments

Convenience from your home/private office

No commute

No worry of the build up or anxiety surrounding an appointment

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And of course:

NO going out to risk it with the germs!

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Clients who participate in telehealth will be asked to sign an agreement stating that they "understand that the service provided through telehealth/telementalhealth/teletherapy/telepsychotherapy is not intended for crisis situations and urgent needs. In a crisis situation, I agree to call 911 or local emergency services, or visit the nearest emergency room.  Information shared with my counselor is confidential except in the following circumstances: If I present as a danger to myself or others, mandated reporting of abuse of children or elders, or if I sign a release of information." 

Additionally, a component of our service plan will include identifying clientele natural support system and nearby contacts that are safe and trusted people should a client need to call on them.

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