Telehealth & Teletherapy Services For Patients in North Dakota & Minnesota
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or other types of mental health problems? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, since the onset of COVID-19, the number of people in America with mental health conditions is now three or more times greater than before the pandemic. With many people processing how their lives have altered, teletherapy has become an effective treatment solution. Here’s what you need to know about the telehealth services offered at Saint Sophie’s Psychiatric Center.
What is Telehealth or Teletherapy?
Telehealth goes by many names, including teletherapy, telemedicine, and telepsychiatry. It is a mental healthcare service that can deliver counseling and behavioral health services using video and interactive technology. Telehealth occurs in real-time, so communication and interactions are live.
The Advantages of Using Teletherapy Services
Saves You Time
As a client, telehealth appointments save you both time and gasoline since you do not need to travel to and from an office.
Extends Access for Care
Another great benefit of telehealth is that you can have an appointment with a provider you prefer, even if they are not located locally. Saint Sophie’s, for instance, is licensed to treat patients in all of North Dakota and Minnesota, although our physical location is in Fargo, ND.
Maintains a Comfortable Familiar Environment
Telehealth allows counselors and psychiatrists to diagnose and treat patients virtually in the comfort of their own homes. This benefit is precious if you are medically homebound or do not have transportation. In most cases, clients are more comfortable talking with their counselor or psychiatrist in their home than in an office.
Monitors in Real-Time
When therapy occurs in real-time, it’s much more effective. For example, your therapist can understand your body language and expressions.
Protects Privacy
All telemedicine/teletherapy platforms must follow privacy rules and be HIPAA compliant.
Mental Health Conditions That Can Be Treated Using Teletherapy
Saint Sophie’s can treat a variety of mental health conditions by using teletherapy, such as:
- Anxiety Disorder
- Depression
- Acute stress
- OCD
- Low self-esteem
- Personality disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Mania
- ADHD
- Body image issues
- PTSD
What to Expect: What a Telehealth Appointment Looks Like
- Initial telehealth appointments are one hour.
- Follow-up medication visits are usually 20-30 minutes.
- Psychotherapy appointments are usually 45 minutes.
- Telehealth appointment frequency depends on your treatment plan.
- Call to make payment arrangements before your telehealth appointment.
- Office staff sends an email or texts you a link to a confidential telehealth meeting. To begin your session, click on the link.
- Be sure your camera and microphone are working.
What Do You Need for A Telehealth Session?
All you need is a smartphone, computer, or tablet with a strong internet connection. Be sure to choose a quiet area so that there are no interruptions. It’s also a good idea to have a pen and notepad handy to jot down information.
Does Insurance Cover Telehealth?
During the pandemic, the federal government declared a state of emergency that requires insurance companies to cover telehealth services. However, always contact your provider to understand your coverage and benefits.
Why Choose Saint Sophie’s Psychiatric Center?
Our philosophy of care is patient-centered around you and your loved one. We wish to help you improve your quality of life through understanding and compassion, based on sound scientific treatment. If you are new to Saint Sophie’s, check out our Patient FAQ and Patient Services pages.
Schedule a Telehealth Appointment
We continue to offer both in-person and telemedicine services during COVID. To schedule a telehealth appointment click below.
Saint Sophie’s Is For You.