SUICIDE AND TELEHEALTH

 

While most of us have become increasingly comfortable with seeing medical professionals on their computer screen or app, there are situations where this is not the best form of treatment.

Just as you wouldn't have a stroke, heart attack, or other medical emergency address over video, the same guidelines in regard to telehealth is vital. This means that if you are experiencing a mental health emergency, you would need to seek out local therapy treatment.

Additionally, as therapists are licensed state-wide, the therapist may be hundreds of miles away from the client. This further reduces the ability of the therapist to jump in with help in a situation where a person wants to harm them self or others.

In my practice I screen my clients to make sure telehealth is the right level of care. If a client has a mental health emergency, I will refer this client to their local emergency room or a local clinician for the best quality of care.