It is no surprise the impact COVID-19 has had on individuals across the globe. Mental health is just one of many areas that have been impacted. Since COVID-19 there has been a massive increase of mental health concerns. As the world adjusted to these changes, so did our therapeutic techniques. Sarah Davis, editor of Forbes Health, reported that out of 1,244 individuals, 31% found teletherapy to be "very effective" and 32% found it to be "somewhat effective" (Davis, 2023). So, what are the benefits of telehealth?
Telehealth allows for flexibility. Whether you're a college student in between classes or a parent in between your child's appointments, telehealth allows for therapy on your own terms. It eliminates the need to cancel and reschedule, pay a late fee or ignore your own mental health needs. The key benefit: You can have therapy anywhere; in your car, at your office or in the comfort of your own home.
Telehealth decreases wait times. According to a 2022 COVID Practitioner Impact Survey (Stringer, 2023) 40% of clinicians had wait lists of at least 10 patients. Online therapy lets you connect with therapists across your state and even the country; as long as they are licensed in your the state you reside in. The key benefit: This decreases your chances of being on a waitlist.
Telehealth can provide more privacy. If you're like me and grew up in a smaller city, chances are you run into someone everywhere you go. Let your therapist's office be a place where you don't worry about that! The key benefit: No more making awkward small talk or avoiding eye contact with people in the waiting area.
Telehealth decreases cancellations. Not feeling well but don't want to cancel? Whether you're having car trouble, experiencing severe weather or need to stay home with your kids, it's no problem. The key benefit: Get a link sent to your email within minutes and avoid a cancellation fee.
Telehealth makes therapy accessible to college students. College counseling centers are a great resource however it's no surprise that they are just as busy. On top of that, most college students don't have transportation and may need more than short-term treatment. The key benefit: Telehealth can connect students to therapists in the area, be seen according to their schedules (and without running into classmates).
Telehealth makes therapy accessible to individuals with disabilities. Mental health treatment is so important when you are adjusting or struggling with medical diagnoses. Remote therapy eliminates the worry of leaving your home with a chronic illness. As a provider, I understand that finding a therapist can add stress to your plate, especially when looking for ADA approved offices. Therapy is here to help manage your stress, not add to it. The key benefit: Teletherapy gives you the option to see a therapist without having to settle.
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