Will My Health Insurance Cover Telemental Health?

​Many insurances have Telemental Health or Telehealth for Behavioral Health already included in member policies.  Often times, you will simply be responsible for an office visit copay - the same if you were meeting with your clinician face-to-face.  If you are not sure whether or not your insurance covers these services, call the member services phone number on the back of your insurance card and ask the representative if your policy covers Telemental Health or Telehealth services for Behavioral Health.

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However, during the COVID-19 public health emergency and the need for social distancing, many insurance companies

are covering Telemental Health services.  Please check with your insurer to determine your individual coverage. 

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What Are the Benefits to Using Telemental Health Services?

​As a participant in this evolving technology, you would be able to receive services at times or in places where counseling may not otherwise be available.  Telemental health is often more convenient and less prone to delays than face-to-face meetings and it provides an opportunity to continue your counseling if you are unable to travel to our office.  Some participants have also experienced improved progress on health goals that may not have been achievable without Telemental Health.

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Are There Risks to Using Telemental Health Services?

​Telemental health services can be impacted by technical glitches, power failures, and may introduce risks to your privacy.  These services may also reduce your clinician's ability to directly intervene in a crisis or emergency situtation.

 

What Do I Need to Get Started?

• Valid email address.  This is the first step in accessing your online session.  You will receive an email from RegroupConnect, our HIPPA compliant telehealth platform, with a link to join your session with your clinician.

• Private space to yourself.  This could be a home office, basement, car, etc., so long as it is a space that you feel comfortable.  Don't worry about messes or clutter, our goal is to focus on you and your needs, not your surroundings.

• Computer, laptop, mobile device with front camera.  Any of these devices that has a camera pointed toward you.  If you're using a laptop, cell phone, or tablet, check that your device has enough charge so your session doesn't abruptly end!

• Internet connection.  Without a stable internet connection, it will be difficult to maintain consistency and quality during your session.  If using a cellular signal to access the internet, be sure you are in place with good cell reception.

• Head phones with a microphone.  Although most laptops and mobile devices have a built in speaker and microphone, for added privacy, consider a pair of headphones with a built-in microphone.  Most cell phones automatically come with one in the box which can also plug into your computer.  

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How Do I Begin My Session?

• Download Zoom.  If you have not already used Zoom, you may have to download the app onto your mobile device or computer.  It's best to do this prior to your appointment.

• Check your technology.  Try to give yourself at least ten minutes prior to your appointment to prepare your device by checking connections, batteries, and volume.

• Use a compatible web browser.  Consider using a web browser such as Chrome or Firefox.  Sometimes Safari or Explorer are not always compatible with video conferencing platforms and can result in minor (or sometimes major) disruptions.

• Open your RegroupConnect email.  Click on the link sent to you from RegroupConnect.  If you did not receive an email from RegroupConnect with a link to join your session, please contact your clinician immediately.

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Is There Anything Else that I Should Know?

​Prior to receiving your email from RegroupConnect, you will receive a request, via email, to set up a Therapy Portal account.  Therapy Portal allows the secure sharing of documents between you and our office.  Upon setting up this account, you will be sent a Nicely Counseling Services Telemental Health Consent form to be completed with your electronic signature.  No downloading or printing of the document is required.