Receiving mental health services through telehealth has been a lifeline for many people, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. For individuals like J.J. Schutz and Christina Griffin, the virtual health care they received at Monarch made therapy more convenient and accessible, helping them cope with life’s challenges.
What is Virtual Health Care?
Virtual health care, also known as telehealth, allows people to receive medical and mental health services online. Instead of visiting a clinic in person, you can connect with your therapist or doctor using a phone, tablet or computer. Telehealth offers a way to get care from the comfort of your home, making it easier for many people to prioritize their health.
Telehealth and Mental Health Services
Mental health services online have become increasingly popular. According to a survey by the National Council for Behavioral Health , 60% of behavioral health services were delivered virtually during the pandemic. Experts believe that even after the pandemic, online mental health services continued to be offered. For many, they became a lifeline to regular, ongoing mental health treatment that may not have been accessible previously.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) actively supported the use of telehealth, noting that recent policy changes have made it easier for people to access these services.
Real-Life Benefits of Online Mental Health Services
J.J. Schutz had recently been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a condition that affects the connective tissues in the body. This has made walking difficult, requiring the use of a wheelchair and has caused depression and anxiety. When Schutz began meeting with her Monarch therapist, Erica Bales, she felt overwhelmed and hopeless. But with telehealth, she found a way to heal.
“Telehealth has been a game-changer for me,” Schutz said. “I don’t have to travel or deal with the discomfort of in-person appointments. I’ve even shared personal items like my journals and portraits that I wouldn’t have been able to bring otherwise.”
Christina Griffin, a mom of two young children, used telehealth to manage her bipolar disorder. After a car accident during her youth caused severe anxiety about driving, telehealth has allowed her to continue therapy without facing that fear.
“I feel so much more at ease,” Griffin shared. “Telehealth has removed a major barrier for me. Now, there’s no excuse for not getting the help I need.”
Breaking Barriers to Mental Health Care
Therapists like Erica Bales have seen how telehealth has made mental health services more accessible. By eliminating the need for transportation and reducing missed appointments, virtual therapy has helped many people stay on track with their treatment.
Monarch’s telehealth services use the Doxy.me platform, which allows therapists and clients to connect easily through a personal device. As long as a person has internet access, they can attend therapy sessions from almost anywhere.
The Future of Mental Health Services Online
Telehealth is here to stay. It’s not just a temporary solution during the pandemic but a long-term way to improve access to care. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, dealing with anxiety or simply seeking support, online mental health services can provide the help you need.
If you’re interested in learning more about Monarch’s telehealth options, call (866) 272-7826. Click on and watch the video below for more information on our telehealth services.