In this pandemic age, uncertainty and isolation are taking their toll. Everyone is wondering how to cope. And yes, the rumors are true. The pandemic has led to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Telepsychiatry, also known as Telehealth Psychiatry

Fortunately, a service called “telepsychiatry,” also known as“telehealth psychiatry,” can help.

What is telepsychiatry? Well, it’s just like working with a psychiatrist or therapist, but online. Telepsychiatry offers psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy/counseling sessions, and medication management – all through the convenience of a smartphone, tablet or computer.

Some people may feel hesitant about doing a counseling session on their computer or phone.

It is going to feel distant.

It won’t feel private.

I won’t feel connected.

But here’s a surprising statistic from a recent Harris Poll: 

Of those who tried telepsychiatry during the current pandemic, 74 percent said they would like to continue their online counseling even after the crisis has abated. The reasons included convenience, enjoyment of using the technology, and reduced cost.

Telepsychiatry Equals In-Person Care

According to the American Psychiatric Association, telepsychiatry matches in-person care for diagnostic accuracy, treatment effectiveness, quality of care, and patient satisfaction. Telepsychiatry has been found to be especially effective in the treatment of depression, PTSD, and ADHD. It may even be preferable to in-person care for people with autism or severe anxiety disorders and for patients with physical limitations.

So, is telepsychiatry right for you? Well, if you have a quiet, private place to conduct the call and a smartphone, tablet, or computer/laptop, it may well be worth the convenience.

At Harmony United Psychiatric Care, we treat each of our clients with compassion, dedication, and respect –whether we are meeting in person or through a telepsychiatry session.

We treat adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), suicidal thoughts, emotional problems, eating disorders, substance abuse, and most other psychiatric conditions.   

Advantages of choosing Harmony United Psychiatric Care for telepsychiatry include:

• Our telepsychiatry providers are all licensed therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists.
• Our online services include psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy/counseling, and medication management.
• We offer appointments within 7 days of scheduling.
• We accept most forms of insurance, including Medicare.
• Our rates are affordable.
• We offer online services anywhere in Florida.

In this pandemic era, empathy, support, and interpersonal communication are more needed than ever. Sometimes you just need a caring person to listen, even if they are not directly in front of you. 

There is a bright future ahead. And it starts by putting one foot forward every day. Telepsychiatry can help. Schedule a telepsychiatry session today.