As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, therapy sessions are currently being held through video telehealth counseling, using a confidential and HIPAA compliant video platform. Although this format may seem strange, or as though it would not be as productive as in-office therapy, research shows telehealth counseling is as effective at treating mental health disorders as an in-person therapy session. Telehealth counseling is an excellent resource for receiving treatment with many benefits. Most clients are loving it and here’s why.
Benefits of Telehealth Counseling
Flexible and Convenient Access to Support
Many clients are enjoying how telehealth has increased the ease of scheduling and attending appointments. When you have a demanding schedule juggling multiple roles, it can feel like squeezing in time for self-care is a luxury only a few fortunate individuals get to partake in. Telehealth counseling offers a convenient and flexible way to attend sessions. Clients can enjoy sessions in nature, on a break, while traveling, and in the comfort of their home. Clients can enjoy therapy at the end of a long day to replenish themselves or start the day off right with a positive mindset.
High-Quality Trauma Care Is Still Available
Standard of care is essential, and therefore it is vital that all telehealth counseling services still offer maximum health benefits. With advances in technology, all forms of therapy can be administered using telehealth platforms, including EMDR. Although there are slight differences in the way in which the therapist directs the bilateral eye movement, remote EMDR is equally as effective. In-person EMDR therapy relies on the use of handheld tappers and/or headphone to list to the sounds and to feel the vibration of the tappers, creating bi-lateral eye movement. Telehealth platforms allow the therapist to control a bi-lateral light source and bi-lateral sounds that are shared and watched on your PC, or laptop monitor.
No Rushing and No Traffic with Telehealth
We have so little control over how the day plays out. We wake up with good intentions to seize the day, but then something unexpected happens, creating havoc in your schedule for the rest of the day. Your workday runs long, or you have to pick up a sick kid from school, you hit traffic, or there’s a snowpocalypse. Life creates unexpected barriers at times for all of us. Telehealth counseling removes those barriers, creating more time and space to nurture your mental health.
Less Stress
Clients find that telehealth counseling allows them to create a routine for relaxation, meditation, and reflection. By reducing stress factors that often create barriers to forming positive habits, attending counseling becomes a part of your routine. Research shows that consistent attendance in therapy is necessary to obtain the maximum health benefit. By easing access to compassionate support, clients can effortlessly achieve the results they seek. The ability to stick to a routine and work toward goals has the added benefits of reducing anxiety and increasing a sense of mastery and confidence. Having something positive and consistent in your life to rely on also enhances feelings of safety and stability, even during a crisis.
