Virtual & Telehealth Counseling in Psychiatry & Mental Health Treatment

With the continued rise of mental health concerns throughout the United States, having access to evidence-based treatment programs is necessary to help treat the growing number of mental health diagnoses. From the year 2019 to 2020, over 50 million individuals were diagnosed with a mental health disorder. (1) In 2021, approximately 57.8 million individuals were diagnosed with a mental health disorder. (2) The amount of individuals experiencing a mental health disorder is approximately 1 billion worldwide. (3) Those who have never received mental health or psychiatric treatment may not be sure where to start or what options are available.

Here at Bishop Health, we offer individualized mental health programs and psychiatry services for those experiencing any mental health concerns. We offer comprehensive treatment for those experiencing mental health disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, psychotic disorders, and co-occurring mental health disorders. With additional services, such as Ketamine Treatment and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for those experiencing depression, we are dedicated to providing each individual with innovative forms of treatment. Contact us today to learn more information regarding which of our programs would best fit your treatment needs.

The Rise of Telehealth in Mental Health Counseling

Telehealth is a safe and effective way to receive mental health and psychiatry services at home. Telehealth is a relatively new treatment option. The rise of telehealth being used in mental health counseling really began during the COVID-19 pandemic. (4) During this time, in-person mental health treatment declined by approximately 50 percent at the end of year when compared to the beginning. (5) Research has found that telehealth services are an effective way to increase the engagement and compliance of those seeking mental health treatment. (6)

Benefits of Virtual Counseling & Online Therapy

One of the main benefits of telehealth mental health treatment is being able to access necessary services in the comfort of your own home. In virtual counseling sessions, individuals receive the exact same quality of care that they would receive during an in-person session. Utilizing virtual mental health treatment can help minimize treatment barriers, or obstacles that interfere with an individual receiving or completing their treatment. Depending on one’s occupation or personal responsibilities, they may not be able to attend counseling sessions in-person. Virtual counseling and therapeutic options help provide individuals with accessibility, affordability, and privacy in terms of mental health treatment.

Accessibility

Virtual counseling options provide individuals with access to treatment. Those who may reside far from a mental health treatment center, do not have access to transportation, or those who may have disabilities may be unable to attend in-person treatment. Virtual counseling and online therapy allows for individuals to be able to access their treatment anywhere that they are able to receive an internet connection.

Affordability

The cost of mental health treatment is one of the main reasons why individuals do not seek treatment. Virtual and telehealth mental health services can be covered by an individual’s health insurance coverage plan. Here at Bishop Health, we can provide you with a free, no obligation insurance benefits check to help you determine which of our psychiatric and mental health options are covered by your insurance provider.

Privacy

Virtual and telehealth mental health treatment options are completed through specific platforms and softwares in order to ensure that patient privacy rights are not violated. This can help ensure that individuals feel safe and comfortable sharing their symptoms and concerns openly with their provider.

Challenges & Limitations of Virtual Counseling

There are some challenges and limitations associated with virtual and telehealth counseling services. It is important for those considering virtual mental health services to understand all of the limitations before beginning their treatment.

Technological Factors

The main challenges present with virtual and telehealth mental health services are often associated with technological issues. Having a poor or unstable internet connection can make it difficult to see or hear clearly during a telehealth session. Some level of technological awareness is also needed in order for virtual sessions to be effective.

Technological components needed for a successful telehealth mental health treatment session include:

A stable internet connection.
A computer, smartphone, or tablet.
A camera.
A microphone.
A speaker.

Patients

Depending on the diagnosis or the symptoms that the individual is experiencing, virtual mental health services may not be the most beneficial treatment option. For those experiencing severe clinical impairments, or complex symptoms, telehealth services may not be recommended unless other in-person treatments have been completed or are included in the treatment plan.

Efficacy of Telehealth & Virtual Mental Health Treatment

Efficacy means reaching one’s desired results. Research regarding the efficacy continues to grow as virtual and telehealth mental health treatment options continue to rise.

Is Virtual & Telehealth Therapy as Effective as In-Person Treatment?

Research has found that telehealth treatment is just as effective, but not more effective, as in-person treatment. (7) Additional research is needed in order to continue to monitor the effectiveness of virtual and telehealth mental health treatment.

Online Support Tools for Mental Health

As the use of online services grows, so do online support tools options. Mental health online support tools can help provide individuals with additional resources regarding mental health. Videos, pamphlets, worksheets, and guides are available to help ensure maximum success for those seeking mental health treatment. Here at Bishop Health, we offer online psychoeducation regarding mental health and substance use disorders.

Legal & Regulatory Considerations of Telehealth Therapy

All providers conducting virtual and online mental health services must follow strict legal and ethical guidelines. If not, state licenses are suspended, and the provider may receive legal consequences.

Licensing

Each telehealth and online provider must hold an active license provided to them by their state agency. Once licensed, providers must complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their license to practice and provide telehealth.

Confidentiality

All clinicians, psychiatrists, and counselors must maintain confidentiality at all times. When beginning telehealth mental health services, your provider will discuss with you the terms of confidentiality.

Security

In order to maintain security during the treatment process, certain protocols are followed. When attending a telehealth counseling or psychiatric session, a secured link is provided for the session. Additionally, your provider will discuss any security requirements that are needed during the treatment process.

Start Your Recovery Journey Today

If you or someone you know are experiencing any mental health concerns, Bishop Health is here to help. We can provide you with an initial psychological assessment to provide you with an official diagnosis, and to help determine what is needed in your treatment plan. With mental health treatment options such as individual therapy, intensive outpatient, and psychiatric services, we can help individuals foster the adaptive techniques that can help maintain mental and emotional well-being. Our licensed staff is trained to provide you with effective medical treatment options, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and medication management. Contact us today to begin your recovery journey.

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Virtual & Telehealth Counseling in Psychiatry & Mental Health Programs