What is Teletherapy? How to Access Mental Health Care Online with a Baltimore Psychiatrist

Access to healthcare has long been a point of contention in the American healthcare system. What we don’t always take into account, however, are the barriers to accessing healthcare that is not necessarily political. Many people struggle to access healthcare because of a lack of transportation, physical handicaps, and more. 

In the wake of COVID-19, it’s more apparent than ever before that making healthcare accessible (in a variety of ways) should be a priority. At Psych Associates of Maryland, we’re offering telehealth as a resource for people looking to keep their distance from others during trying times or who are unable to attend traditional mental health visits. How does teletherapy with a Baltimore psychiatrist work, and what are the major benefits to teletherapy? We’re here to break it down for you. 

What is Teletherapy?

Online Mental Health Appointments with a Baltimore Psychiatrist

Technology over the past decade has expanded greatly, paving the way for virtual communication that 30 years ago were only imaginative pieces of a science fiction movie. The ability to video chat, share information, and communicate with such ease is something we take for granted, especially as it remains a greatly underutilized tool within the healthcare industry.

COVID-19 has already and indefinitely will change the way we interact for the near future. The pressure to remain at home to avoid spreading the virus has increased the popularity of telehealth visits, or appointments with healthcare providers done virtually.

Instead of relying solely on in-person visits with a Baltimore psychiatrist or other mental health care professional, telehealth and teletherapy appointment connect patients and providers through telecommunication technologies. Typically done over video chat over phone or laptop, these appointments make it possible to administer care without physical in-person contact.

While there are certain healthcare visits that cannot be easily completed digitally, mental health appointments are perfect for telehealth, allowing patients to retain a consistent care schedule virtually.

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Benefits of Teletherapy

Reaching More People in Vulnerable Populations

For many people, one of the biggest downfalls to the use of teletherapy is an initial learning curve. Learning how to access a secure calling portal and having the tools to do so is something that older populations may need assistance doing. However, this initial learning curve is negligible compared to the benefits that come from accessing a teletherapy appointment with a Baltimore psychiatrist or other mental health provider:

• Teletherapy maintains social distance. In the case of COVID-19, keeping social distance is a mandated practice that can help slow and stop the spread of the virus. However, there are a number of people who are sick and were considered immunocompromised even before coronavirus — like people with cystic fibrosis or undergoing chemotherapy — that can benefit from ongoing social distancing practices. Teletherapy allows these individuals to access quality care without risking infection.
• Teletherapy caters to individuals with limited mobility. A sense of ableism is assumed when we expect that everyone can come into a practitioner’s office on a weekly basis. Individuals with physical limitations can benefit from teletherapy because it essentially allows the practitioner to come to them rather than forcing them to travel. This same idea continues for people who may not have transportation or are unsafe while traveling during a snowstorm, for instance.
• Teletherapy is great for people with busy schedules. Aside from people who are physically unable to visit an office, many people find that teletherapy fits better into their busy schedules. Reducing travel time, money spent on transportation, and organizing work and childcare schedules around a therapy appointment, teletherapy allows people to get care amidst hectic schedules.
• Teletherapy can benefit people who are less comfortable with in-person interactions. Aside from barriers to access, many people have become less accustomed to in-person interaction. People with high anxiety may feel more comfortable in a familiar setting, making telehealth a great option for the beginning stages of coping with anxiety and social phobia.

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Teletherapy at Psych Associates of Maryland

What You Can Expect When Seeing a Baltimore Psychiatrist Remotely

If you’re looking to try teletherapy out for yourself, there are a few things you should know first. In order to take part in a telehealth visit, you will need either a laptop, computer, or phone with a camera and a strong internet connection. Psych Associates of Maryland will provide you with the resources and steps necessary for getting set up.

Psych Associates of Maryland accepts most insurance in the Maryland region for treatment. Service options at the moment include:

• Appointments for people who regularly see a PAM practitioner
• Appointments for people who regularly see another practitioner
• Appointments for people experiencing increased stress/anxiety related to COVID-19
• Appointments for people in need of medication refills
• And more!

If you’d like to make a teletherapy appointment with Pysch Associates of Maryland, contact us today. Most appointments can be made within 72 hours.