What is Telemental Health?
This is a broad term that encompasses mental health services provided via telephone, web-based platforms, text messages and/or emails.
How does Telemental Health Work?
Instead of traveling to your mental health provider’s office, you will receive services via a secure online platform. The platform(s) used for these services may vary and will be determined by you and your provider.
Ways Telemental Health Services are Delivered
The delivery methods of telemental health services fall under two main categories:
Synchronous (Real Time) Delivery
Synchronous interactions are when communication between a client and therapist happens in real time. This would be similar to a counseling session. It would be just like scheduling an appointment to see your therapist, but instead of traveling to the therapist’s office, you would receive counseling in the remote environment of your choice.
Telemental health providers often use the telephone and/or video conferencing platforms to deliver this type of service.
Asynchronous (Lapsed Time) Delivery
Asynchronous interactions are when time lapses during discussions between a client and their therapist. An example of this would be asking your therapist a question via email. They may not be in front of their computer to respond immediately, but they respond after some time has lapsed with an answer to your question.
Telemental health providers often use email and/or text messaging for this type of service.
What are some of the Advantages of Telemental Health?
By utilizing technological advances, more clients are able to fit therapy into their busy schedules. This could translate to less time away from work for appointments and/or less time spent in traffic. It can also translate to a more comfortable therapy environment, especially for clients seeking treatment for certain conditions, such as anxiety.
In addition, it allows the freedom and ability of those that may live in more remote locations to gain the access to the mental health services they desire.
Online Healthcare Privacy Concerns
The use of electronic platforms to reach clients has been in practice since the 1950’s and has only gained in popularity as well as efficacy.
At Elemental Mental Health, your online security is of the utmost importance. The telemental health platforms utilized by Elemental Mental Health are secure and meet HIPAA data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information. You can rest assured that your private information is protected at all times.
Learn more about EMH Mental Health Services in Georgia, Florida, Texas and California
Elemental Mental Health offers a variety of services customized to meet the needs of each unique individual seeking treatment. If you have any questions about our telemental health services or the options available, please reach out via the contact form on the website.