What You Need to Know About Telehealth: 5 Helpful Insights
COVID-19 has impacted us all in so many ways. When it comes to health services, we have seen many providers shift to offering services online. Telehealth allows you to connect with your therapist via laptop or your cell services through a HIPAA- compliant platform. This is a relatively new service for providers and for many clients. I understand there are many questions and concerns that may come up as we shift from in-person to virtual sessions. Here are five things you should know:
1. Telehealth sessions can be just as effective as in-person sessions
A concern I have heard from many professionals and clients is that they do not want to miss out on the comforting feel being in the office has. One of the major reasons people feel comfortable in the office is not because of the room or décor, but because of the relationship and rapport that is built between the therapist and client. This can be established in the same during virtual sessions by asking questions and showing up to the sessions ready to engage. It is important to be engaged and communicate by speaking clearly, making eye contact, and checking in with your therapist to ensure you both understand what is being communicated.
2. Telehealth offers flexibility
Engaging in services virtually allows you to meet with your therapist from the comfort of your home and likely reduces the time you would need to allow for sessions as you are no longer required to commute. This means your therapist also has flexibility and may be able to offer sessions during evening or weekend hours.
3. Create the environment for your sessions
Now that you aren’t attending sessions in the office, you may be missing the feel of the in-office sessions. To replicate this, I recommend creating a space for healing. This can be using a particular room, going outside, or adding calming fragrances such as lavender or tea tree essential oils. Creating the space helps to shift our minds in preparation of the session and in support of our healing. Creating the space also includes putting your phone on silent, adding white noise for privacy, and ensuring your electronic devices are charged.
4. Many insurances cover telehealth services
There was a time when many health insurances required specialized training and authorization to provide telehealth services. The COVID-19 has resulted in a review and change of these policies allowing many therapy providers authorization to conduct virtual sessions without any lapse in treatment or coverage. As always, it is recommended you check with your insurance provider to ensure they will cover virtual services.
5. You can always change your mind
Telehealth services are not for everyone. At times, people managing anxiety, depression or engaging in specialized services such as EMDR may benefit from office sessions.Check in with yourself following the sessions. Does something feel off? Are you missing the feel of being in the office or are there other challenges with the sessions? Discuss this with your therapist and determine if you want to return to office sessions. You can continue working with your therapist or discuss if a transition to another therapist is necessary.
I hope these were helpful for you. Stay tuned to our blog and follow up on social media on Instagram and Facebook! If you’re interested in speaking with us about therapy services, workshops, or to simply connect- send us an email at krystal@simplybeingcounseling.com.