Telemental Health Information

For the health of all Bobcats, Telemental Health (TMH) services are currently being offered via phone or HIPAA-compliant Zoom video.  Clients who do not have access to a private space and/or a computer with camera and microphone should speak with their clinician about what options may be available. 

Please refer to the following pros and cons of TMH to help you make informed decisions about your care. 

PROS

• TMH through phone or HIPAA-compliant Zoom video prevents possible exposure to COVID-19.
• You can engage in TMH in a private space that is comfortable to you (e.g., bedroom, home office, or stationary car).
• There is no need to travel to campus or the LBJ Student Center.
• Scheduling may be easier since you do not have to plan for commute time.
• Evidence is accumulating to suggest that the degree of clinical effectiveness of TMH treatments is comparable with the same treatments delivered in conventional in-office settings (Pruitt, Luxton, & Shore, 2014).

CONS

• Depending on your living situation it may be difficult to find a private space for sessions. There may be distracting factors in your home (e.g., pets, noise from roommates or family) that you may need to address. Clinicians can help you brainstorm other private options such as sitting in a stationary vehicle, using a private room on campus, or being in a private outdoor area.
• Technology is not always reliable and there can be interruptions in your session. If there is an interruption, your clinician will call you.
• You may not always have consistent access to a phone, computer, or internet with reliable bandwidth. 
• Sometimes clients find it difficult to feels as “connected” during TMH sessions as they do during in-person sessions. You are welcome to discuss this with the clinician to find opportunities to improve the connection.