What is TeleMental Health?

Many states require specific documentation regarding informed consent when participating inTeleMental Health sessions. There are potential benefits and risks of video-conferencing (e.g. limits to patient confidentiality) that differ from in-person sessions.Confidentiality still applies to TeleMental Health services, and I, as your therapist, will explain these procedures. For example, you need to use a webcam or smartphone during the session.It is important to be in a quiet, private space that is free of distractions (including cell phone or other devices) during the session.It is important to use a secure internet connection rather than public/free Wi-Fi. It is important to be on time for your sessions. If you need to cancel or change your appointment. We will use a "back-up plan" (e.g., phone number where you can be reached) to restart any session, or to reschedule it, in the event of technical problems. We will use a safety plan that includes at least one emergency contact and the closest emergency room to your location, in the event of a crisis situation. If you are not an adult, I need the permission of a parent or legal guardian (and their contact information) for you to participate in telepsychology sessions with me. As your psychologist, I may determine that due to certain circumstances, telepsychology is not appropriate for you, and that we should either terminate, or resume, our sessions in-person (if feasible).  A complete description regarding all of my required TeleMental Health procedures are outlined within my Clinical Services Agreement Form. Before we can begin services, you need read, sign, and submit my Clinical Services Agreement Form. I look forward to working with you!

Technology for TeleMental Health services has significantly helped to break down barriers, remove stigmas, and increase access to several different types of mentl health services.  Patients can now choose their preferred mode of delivery between phone, chat, e-mail, and video conferencing. Telemental Health services can now be delivered through HIPAA compliant, cloud-based modalities on desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Telemental Health can typically provide the following types of services:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CTB): CBT therapists focus on encouraging patients to challenge distorted thought patterns which lead to negative emotional states (e.g., anxiety, depression, etc.), and subsequent dysfunctional behavioral response patterns.

Group Therapy: This is a form of therapy where a group of patients meets to discuss their issues and challenges together under the supervision of a therapist.  Group therapy is a beneficial treatment strategy for many individuals experiencing relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional trauma, or low self-esteem.

Relationship Counseling: A Form of therapy for couples that focuses on identifying and solving problems in their relationship; particularly as they relate to a lack of effective communications patterns.  

Pastoral Counseling: Pastoral counseling is a therapy that incorporates psychology, religion, spirituality, and theology. This form of therapy works to resolve the same issues as other common forms of therapy, but from a religious perspective that ultimately strengthens the relationship with others along with the goal of incorporating one's particual religious beliefs.

Guided Self Help: A form of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for people with mild forms of depression or anxiety.  Typical therapy approaches involve working through a computer course or workbook with the support of a highly trained therapist.  During the course, the therapist will support patients with face-to-face and TeleMental Health appointments.