TeleHealth: What Is It and How Does It Work?

TeleHealth has become a hot topic right now due to the influx of those needing medical care, the burden our medical system is already experiencing, and the social distancing recommendations. What do I do if I have a D0ct0r’s appointment, am feeling ill, or have an upcoming counseling session?

How TeleHealth Fits

TeleHealth is an online technology-based solution that Pinnacle Counseling Institute (and many others) has offered for years. In the past, it’s primary use was when a client became unable to attend a session in person; it was rare or unique. That is all changing now. Last week, our team proactively notified all clients over the next few weeks that we had prepared and were able to engage in TeleHealth sessions if they so choose to do so. We sent out a 3 question CDC informed sheet to ensure the protection of our team and other clients, which if all three questions were a “NO,” the client had the choice. If any items were answered “YES,” we requested the client setup a TeleHealth Virtual appointment with their Counselor.  The form is below:

How We’re Using TeleHealth

We are now able to use a variety of simple, free virtual platforms to accomplish this goal. We use platforms like FaceTime, Skype, and more during this COVID-19 pandemic season.  Our field is governed by several bodies, one of which is the Health and Human Services Department. HHS recently advised all health care workers, including mental health care workers, of changes to regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes allow us to utilize all platforms available to maintain the health and well being of our clients. We are honored to be able to do that, and for our President/CEO, Cathy Gibson’s leadership in proactively engaging these challenges.  Here is the HHS update if you are interested in learning more.  As always, all information will be kept confidential. These changes allow us to do virtual sessions with clients unable or uncomfortable coming in for an in-person session.

TeleHealth Made Easy for You

These are trying times, of course.  Many people will begin feeling the emotional weight of ongoing frustrations, changes, and losses of their ordinary.  If we can help anyone who is experiencing understandable anxiety, stress, or a myriad of other emotions and for whatever reason has no one or nowhere safe to process them, we are ready and willing to do so. Our entire process of paperwork and actual counseling sessions are accessible from your computer or phone. While we still maintain that in-person counseling provides the optimal environment, research shows that being able to talk about what you’re feeling, in person or virtually, in times of crisis, is hugely beneficial, along with learning coping mechanisms for all that is happening. Please do not hesitate to reach out to schedule an appointment with one of our counselors!