I provide telehealth services as an additional or alternative approach to therapy as compared to office-based visits. Since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, telehealth has boomed due to the increased need and has been beneficial in aiding individual and public health. Not only has telehealth been around since the 1950s, but it’s also as effective as office-based therapy. There are many benefits to telehealth which has made it a popular and convenient choice, and it is upheld by meta-analytic evidence in psychological research.
Below are some but not all benefits to telehealth:
- Less time and money spent on travel-related costs.
- Greater flexibility with addressing issues related to childcare.
- Increased access to effective care for those in areas without trained providers.
- Reduces stigma of accessing mental health care.
- Telehealth is highly secure and confidential.
- Telehealth reduces barriers by treating the problem where it may live. This can be incredibly helpful for those struggling with anxiety, trauma, and depressive-related symptoms.
Due to ethical guidelines and Federal/State regulations, there are limits on to whom may use telehealth services. Below are some considerations:
1. The client must be physically in the State of Oklahoma as I can only provide services in the State that I am licensed to practice.
2. Not all symptoms are appropriate for telehealth services. If you are in a crisis, abusing substances, experiencing psychosis, or thinking of harming yourself and/or others, telehealth may not be the best fit for services.
3. I can offer telehealth services if I feel it will not negatively impact your treatment and if remote services are appropriate.
4. Having access to technology is vital for telehealth services. It will be important to have access to a computer with a webcam, iPad, Tablet, smartphone, or another similar device. Along with having access to hardware, having internet access fast enough to stream videos is necessary.
I’ll address any questions or concerns you have regarding telehealth should we begin working together. If you decide to engage in telehealth services, an additional informed consent form will be required that will provide you with more specific information about telehealth services. Signing the Informed Consent for Telehealth form does not mean that you must use telehealth services, it just gives you the option to use telehealth if you like (e.g. You feel sick and don’t want others to get sick, maybe you’re worried about inclement weather/road conditions and would rather not take the risk of driving, perhaps you just wanna stay home as it’s more convenient, etc.). You may stop telehealth services anytime and return or focus on office-based therapy if you choose.
