Nearly a quarter of people who identify as Generation Z report that it is very or very difficult to get help during a behavioral health crisis. As a result, many people turn to emergency rooms and emergency medical services for mental health, which can be costly and inadequate.
In a 2022 press release, Jessica Wong, vice president of clinical outreach at Charlie Health, said: “We cannot flood emergency rooms or put families on waiting lists for 60 to 90 days to deal with acute mental health issues.”
“If a facility has a long waiting list, virtual IOP may help clients get treatment sooner without having to wait for service,” says a licensed New York-based clinical psychologist. Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa agrees. He specializes in working with LGBTQ+ people, people of color, men, and trauma survivors.
“can [also] It’s a challenge for families who work, have limited childcare or transportation to ensure their loved ones attend all these IOP appointments,” he adds. “That’s why online platforms are attractive to many families.”
According to Charlie Health, receiving care virtually means that individuals have the opportunity to be better matched with therapists and peer groups, not just based on geographic proximity, but also on unique diagnoses and experiences. also means
“Therapy groups, especially for teens and young adults, can help normalize and validate the mental health experience,” says Dr. Lira de la Rosa. groups can help [them] Share stories and receive support and feedback from other clients in your age group. “
Still, while online IOPs offer many advantages, there are some factors to consider before registering. Especially for individuals who have recently been discharged from a more intensive program.
“It is essential to know if a client is discharged. [from an inpatient facility] It’s a good candidate for virtual IOP,” says Dr. Lira de la Rosa.
Families and potential clients should consult their original multidisciplinary team or health care provider to ensure the client continues to receive the appropriate level of care, according to Dr. Lira de la Rosa. “Without a proper discharge plan, clients may be readmitted to an inpatient facility, which can create a number of stressors for clients and their families.”
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, people who are in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, who need a detox, or who need round-the-clock monitoring are not suitable for outpatient treatment.
Clients and families are asking whether individuals have access to a stable internet connection, whether they have enough privacy to fully participate in virtual services at home, and whether they feel really comfortable receiving treatment online. must also be considered.
“When these programs are done online, clients are able to connect with other group members, but they may not be able to have a natural conversation between sessions, as they would be in person,” says Lira de la Rosa. says Dr.
“In a telemedicine group, there can be some awkward moments when clients don’t know if they should keep their cameras and microphones on,” he adds. It can create more anxiety.
Additionally, Charley Health may not be suitable for individuals who cannot tolerate a time commitment. need to do it. Usually at least 9 hours. This aspect should be considered if time commitments are not feasible.
To determine if an online IOP like Charlie Health is right for you, Dr. Lira de la Rosa advises potential clients and their families to ask hospitalization teams the following questions:
- What potential challenges or barriers should Charlie Health be aware of if they decide to do virtual services?
- What if I start my program and realize it’s not right for me and I need to move to an in-person program? What does this process entail?
- What questions should I ask my insurance company about Charlie Health and whether this treatment is covered by my insurance plan? Are there any limitations to the coverage of these services that I should be aware of?
- Are there any clinical conditions that are not ideal for Charlie Health?
- How is progress measured?
- What are your expectations about how involved your family should be in this process?
- How does Charlie Health address client risk and safety concerns when services are delivered virtually?
