Telehealth has transformed the landscape of our healthcare system. It allowed for expanded accessibility to practitioners in a large range of medical fields. This has particularly benefited access to mental health care services and support.
The expansion of telehealth has opened opportunities by offering flexibility, convenience and an increased level of privacy, among other aspects, that were previously more challenging through face to face therapy sessions.
How has this increase in telehealth served accessibility to mental health care services?
Read on to learn more.
Removing Access Barriers
Access to mental health services has long been a point of barrier for many patients. This includes obstacles such as location of practitioners or access to transportation. The widespread use of telehealth for mental health has helped to alleviate these barriers by enabling access to well qualified mental health practitioners regardless of geological location.
Flexibility and Convenience
Telehealth provides increased flexibility and convenience for both patients and mental health professionals. Scheduling telehealth sessions is usually more flexible as travel time is eliminated, and different time zones can be accommodated. The ability to attend a therapy or counseling session in the comfort of your own home (or home office), or environment of choice, is an added convenience as well.
Enhancing Privacy and Comfort
Telehealth offers an additional level of privacy and comfort for patients seeking care. For many getting support for their mental health can be an internal struggle, and having the choice of a familiar and comfortable environment can help ease this challenge.
Tailored Therapeutic Options
Telehealth options for mental health support are vast in their offerings. There are options beyond one-on-one counseling or psychotherapy sessions, that can be tailored to meet your individual needs. For example, at Optimal Vitality Concierge (OVC) we offer a holistic offering of mental health services including Wellness Coaching, Medication Management, Psychotherapy, a variety of Psychological Assessments, Metabolic Balance, online Yoga, and much more. These offerings contribute to a whole person approach to mental health and well being.
Encouraging Regular Support
The increased access and ease of use of telehealth services facilitates more frequent check-ins and support. This is beneficial to closely monitor progress when needed, as help support through transitions, and increase the effectiveness of specific programs and services. The ability to access mental health services through telehealth helps to incorporate these services into regular wellness routines, making it a part of everyday life.
The integration of telehealth into mental health care is transforming accessibility and impact of mental health support. The ability to utilize mental health and wellness services remotely broadens access for both providers and patients. In addition, with the convenience and flexibility of scheduling, ability to receive and give treatment within the comfort of your chosen environment, telehealth for mental health care has tremendous benefits for our society in providing opportunities for equitable access to care.
