Using telehealth as a way to meet with your counselor has been around for quite some time. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become a mainstream option when meeting in person is not possible for various reasons. Now that using telehealth technology has become commonplace, we receive many questions from people who are interested in receiving counseling services through this method. Below are answers to our most common questions.
Q. What is telehealth?
A. Telehealth is when someone receives counseling/mental health/medical services through any form of technology that allows the counselor and client to communicate when they are in different locations.
Q. Is telehealth better or worse than in-person sessions?
A. Decades of research have demonstrated that there is no significant difference in outcomes when meeting in-person or online. It ultimately depends on your preference and therapist availability.
Q. Is telehealth effective for everyone and every situation?
A. There are situations when telehealth is not the most appropriate way to receive services. Your counselor will discuss this with you if necessary.
Q. I will be out of town for work or on vacation. Can I still meet via telehealth since I can connect from anywhere?
A. Counselors at The Babb Center are licensed in Tennessee so you may connect with your counselor using telehealth from anywhere in Tennessee. Our counselors cannot meet with you if you are outside Tennessee state lines, with a few rare exceptions.
Q. What technology do you use for telehealth at The Babb Center?
A. We use doxy.me. This telehealth-friendly platform is HIPAA compliant and video-based, so it allows the client and therapist to see and hear each other in a secure and confidential digital environment using a smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection.
Q. How do I connect with my counselor through your telehealth platform?
A. At your scheduled appointment time, go to www.babbcenter.org and follow the prompts: click on the waiting room and then click on your counselor’s name.
Q. What else should I know about counseling and telehealth?
A. When therapy is held in the office, there is no concern about someone else overhearing your conversation. When using telehealth, you need to ensure you have complete privacy in your setting and that other people next door or nearby cannot overhear your conversation. It is also important to make sure you have a stable internet connection and a completely charged (or plugged-in) device.
Q. How do I make a telehealth appointment with The Babb Center?
A. You schedule a telehealth appointment the same as when coming in person. Call The Babb Center for Counseling at 615-824-3772 and tell the receptionist you would like to schedule a telehealth appointment. You will be scheduled for an appointment based on your specific counseling needs and the availability of an appropriate counselor.