Telehealth
All our counselors are offering phone and video sessions!
Telehealth is simply getting the counseling you need from wherever you are. Many people are uncomfortable with going to an office or leaving their home to talk about difficult topics so being in an environment that brings you comfort contributes to the healing process. If you have a smart device and an internet connection then you can have a confidential encounter with a counselor to talk about developing a plan to help you grow.
When you call to set up an appointment, you'll receive easy to follow instructions that will have you using our video platform.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is counseling services provided virtually through telecommunication technologies. Either in the form of a phone session or a video session, Telehealth allows you to work with your counselor while at home. Our Telehealth video services are encrypted, HIPAA compliant, and meet all state and federal standards for delivery of mental health services.
How does Telehealth work?
All our counselors can offer Telehealth services. Once you choose a counselor or are matched with one, let us know that you are interested in Telehealth. Depending on your counselor, you may have one initial in-person session or you may be able to start right away with Telehealth services. Some counselors may only use Telehealth occasionally as the situation calls for it while relying on in-person sessions as the primary form of counseling. Please let us know if you want Telehealth to be your primary form of counseling.
For phone sessions we use Google Voice. You do not need to download any app for phone sessions. Your counselor will call you at the start of your session.
For video sessions we use the following options:
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If your counselor is using Doxy.me, you will be sent an email with a link to check-in. Doxy.me does not require you to download any software. You can use your smart phone or tablet (if they have a front-facing camera), or you can use a computer equipped with a webcam. Be sure to find a private place in your house with minimal distractions and a strong internet connection.
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If your counselor is using VSEE, you will receive easy to follow instructions on how to download the VSEE platform.
Is Telehealth just as good as traditional counseling?
There is a therapeutic loss when you are unable to meet with your counselor face-to-face. So much of communication is non-verbal which is easy to miss over video sessions and especially over the phone. There are even some therapy techniques (such as EMDR) which cannot be used in a virtual session.
Telehealth allows anyone access to counseling services even if they can't make it to the counseling office. Maybe you're on vacation or just moved out of the city. Some days you might feel sick or can't find the motivation to get out of the house. With Telehealth, your counselor can come to you. With its limitations there are also benefits. Your counselor will discuss the limitation of Telehealth with you while also developing a plan to make the most of it.
Is Telehealth right for me?
Telehealth is a useful alternative to in-office visits for anyone living in Texas. Sometimes anxiety or depression can make it hard to leave the house and it is much simpler to contact your counselor at home. Sometimes work can be too demanding or families can have an ever changing schedule which makes it difficult to drive out of your way to the counseling office. Telehealth brings counseling to you when you're unable to get away.