Phone and Video Psychology

the psych professionals blog

Did you know that you can now access psychology services when and where it suits you?

Whether this be in the comfort of your own home, at work in your lunch break or on the run in between short breaks with the kids, you can now prioritise your health, no matter what your personal circumstances.

Phone and video psychology, also known as telehealth psychology services (telepsychology or online psychological therapy), are psychological services through remote technologies, such as video, phone calls, or secure messaging.

WHAT WE OFFER?

With telehealth psychology services, you can access mental health care from the comfort of your own home, without having to travel to an office. This can be helpful if you live in a rural or remote areas, have mobility issues, transportation challenges or anxiety around new places or leaving the house. It can also be helpful if you have a very busy life, juggling multiple roles, or a high workload.

Telehealth psychology services can support a range of mental health treatments, including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. They can also be used to provide some mental health assessments, consultations, and support.

Telehealth psychology services have become very popular over the last few years, as they offer a hassle-free way to connect with a psychologist all while saving you valuable time.

Why The Psych Professionals?

The Psych Professionals have Mental Health Clinicians (Psychologists, Mental Health Accredited Social Workers, Occupational Therapists etc), who are registered and qualified in Australia and as such, are bound by the legislation of their governing bodies. This means your clinician has a minimum of 4 years of university study and is qualified to support you to live the life that you deserve. Our clinicians providing telehealth psychology services also have extensive experience and training providing services online and/or by phone.

Telehealth psychology services can connect individuals with specialized mental health care providers who mayy not be located in their local area.

Who would telehealth be suitable for?

Telehealth services are suitable for most individuals. Presenting issues we work with are:

  • Depression
  • Life changes
  • ADHD Assessments
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety and Stress
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Chronic Pain
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Depression
  • Fears (Phobias)
  • Grief and Loss
  • Issues affecting Older Adults
  • Obsessive-Compulsive behaviours
  • Panic Attacks
  • Post-natal Depression and Women’s Health
  • Post-Traumatic Stress (following traumatic events)
  • Relationship Issues
  • Return to Work
  • Sleep Management
  • Weight Loss Management
Is telehealth psychology less effective than face to face?

Overall, telehealth psychology can be an effective alternative to face-to-face sessions for many individuals. In fact, research has proven that in some cases, not only are the results of telehealth therapy comparable to that of in person, it can also exceed outcomes! However, it is important to discuss with a therapist whether telehealth is an appropriate option for an individual’s specific needs and concerns. For more information on the effectiveness of telehealth psychology, please see our blog, here

How does telehealth psychology save me time?

Telehealth sessions can be conducted from the comfort of your own home, reducing the time and effort required to attend in-person appointments. Telehealth services can be more flexible than traditional in-person appointments, allowing for appointments outside of typical office hours or in situations where one may not be able to leave their home. Telehealth psychology services can also save you valuable time and travel costs, ensuring you are able to see a qualified professional, without the need to travel.

How do telehealth sessions impact on my privacy?

Telehealth sessions are conducted over secure video conferencing or messaging platforms, providing a level of privacy you can be confident in.

Can my child see someone over telehealth?

YES! The Psych Professionals have team who are trained and experienced in seeing children and adolescents. Get in touch with our team and they will be able to let you know which of our clinicians work with these age groups.

How do telehealth sessions help me to manage my Anxiety?

 Some individuals may feel more comfortable and less anxious in their own environment, which can lead to more productive therapy sessions. Telehealth sessions also provide you clinician with the ability to see your space, which helps them to tailor make strategies for you. 

For those with triggers for their anxiety which are specific (like social situations, driving or shopping), telehealth psychology allows you to work with your psychologist to complete strategies in or around the particular triggers, which can improve effectiveness and provide you with additional support. 

 

What does the telehealth process look like?

The telehealth process for psychology is very similar to that of face to face – just in your own home or via phone or video link! You don’t require any software or device (just a phone or internet access). For more information about what this looks like, see our blog here.

What if telehealth isn’t for me?

That’s ok! Our team are qualified in triaging (recommending clinicians based on presenting issues and experience). If there is anything that flags that may not be suitable for telehealth, we will let you know. If you attend you session or sessions and feel that telehealth isn’t working for you, please let us know. We will chat with you about whether the problem is that telehealth is not suitable, or whether you are just not fitting with your clinician (finding a clinician is like finding a good pair of shoes – not everyone is the right fit!). We can then work with you to ensure your mental health journey is moving in the best direction possible.

Overall, telehealth psychology services offer a convenient, flexible, and accessible way to access mental health care.