The Rise of Teletherapy in New York: Convenient and Effective Mental Health Care
The Rise of Teletherapy in New York: Convenient and Effective Mental Health Care
Written by Lily Thrope
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in the need for mental health services, particularly among young adults. Despite this uptick in demand for mental health support, the supply of providers in New York has not kept pace with greater need. Teletherapy helps bridge this gap by giving New Yorkers more options to access care quickly, comfortably and efficiently.
Teletherapy, also known as online therapy, is a method of providing mental health services either by phone, or virtually, through online platforms such as Zoom, or other secure platforms that fully protect patient/client confidentiality and are HIPAA compliant. Other specialized virtual platforms include Signal and Updox, among others. Clients connect with licensed professionals to conduct virtual face-to-face talk sessions. According to the American Psychological Association, today about three-quarters (76%) of 2,000 APA member clinicians say they are now solely providing remote services, primarily via phone or a designated telehealth platform. The rise in teletherapy has proven that quality and convenient mental health care can be accessible to all.
Teletherapy, or ‘virtual therapy,’ tends to remove obstacles that prevent people from accessing quality mental health care. For one thing, teletherapy reduces major hurdles like transportation limitations. Some people have anxiety associated with attending therapy sessions in an office space. With teletherapy, clients participate in sessions from the comfort of their own homes, alleviating many stressors.When clients are relaxed, they can experience more productive therapy sessions.
Another benefit of teletherapy is flexibility. For busy New Yorkers, our days are often packed with back-to-back appointments and errands. Some clients work unconventional hours or have schedules that do not align with that of clinicians. Also, many times, virtual appointments can be scheduled more quickly than in-person sessions. This ensures that people in need of mental health treatment are receiving it. Once an individual gets over the potential initial anxiety of an online session, one can really transcend barriers, such as being in the same location as your therapist. Working on issues in this manner is quite possible, even preferable at times for those who feel more comfortable in their own space.
While teletherapy is not perfect, mental health professionals are continuing to address these concerns and optimize the teletherapy experience. It has rapidly become a convenient and effective component of New York’s mental healthcare system, and it continues to expand access and flexibility for providers and clients across the state.While in-person therapy will always have its place, teletherapy is undoubtedly a viable option for mental health support. Right now at Thrope Therapy we offer both in-person and virtual sessions. Schedule your free 15 minute consultation today.
Please email us with any questions or inquiries at hello@thropetherapy.com.
