May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it seems like we are in need of awareness now more than ever! While we are still in a global pandemic, some of the restrictions and guidelines that have been put in place for public health and safety are being lifted. I know some people who have really struggled with the changes caused by the pandemic. I know others who will struggle going back to what we used to know before we used masks and were staying at home. Most of the people I know have mixed feelings and emotions around what’s coming. It’s all unknown.
As a therapist, I believe it is critical to advocate for my clients. At Samaritan Counseling Center, we work hard to make sure that you get the services, care, and support that you need. As we anticipate reopening our building, we know that many people will look forward to having therapy sessions in person. We also expect many people will want to continue receiving therapy via telehealth. This platform for providing therapy has been invaluable to our clinic so that we can be available to you.
I cannot speak for my colleagues, but I want to share with you my perspective. Here’s why telehealth has mattered to me:
● I get to offer therapy services for you when we could not be in the same room.
● I get to meet your families, your pets, and occasionally your friends.
● I can see you in your home or your workspace, so I am able to get a better picture of what your situation is like. I would not see this if you were in my office. You get better service from me because I understand you and your environment much better than if you are in my space.
● There are some therapeutic methods that are more effective on a screen than in person.
● You don’t have to commute to our office, so it’s much easier for you to receive services.
● Did I mention that I get to see you in your own environment, and it helps me understand you better? (For me, this is an important one.)
Please take a moment to consider how telehealth has been beneficial to you, and whether or not you would like to continue with telehealth or if you would like to come to the office for therapy sessions.
Here’s why it’s important to think about this. We are learning that insurance companies and legislators will be making decisions soon about how to provide mental health to you beyond mandated stay-at-home restrictions. The power is in their hands about how to proceed. As the one receiving the services, it doesn’t make sense that you might not be able to make the decision to meet with me in person or via telehealth. As one providing the services, I might not be able to either. The decision may be in the hands of those who have not experienced it themselves.
If you prefer telehealth services, and your insurance company begins mandating in person services, that will change your access to mental health care. It’s important to be proactive about this. You can inform your insurance company now how telehealth has been important to you by calling the customer service phone number on your insurance card and asking how you can inform the company of what you need in your mental health services.
Legislators and politicians also make decisions about your mental health care. Many of the decisions they make are nonpartisan, and affect all of us because it limits or expands our access to healthcare. Ironically, these leaders in our society also don’t know all of the ways their decisions affect all of us. As a citizen, you have the right to make your voice and concerns known. Let your elected officials know what you need in your healthcare. Below are websites to find contact information for your elected officials. You can find your representatives and their contact information by putting in your address.
As a therapist, it is an honor and privilege to serve our community through mental health services. These services are a partnership between you and your therapist. We are here to advocate for you, and we need your help in advocating for you too. If you want services in person, we want to provide those services when it is available. If you want telehealth services, we want to provide you with those services too. Ultimately, we can join together to advocate for the service you need. If you have any questions about this, you may talk to your therapist or other healthcare professional about your rights, privileges, and advocacy for your health.
