As a mental health nurse practitioner who sees patients both in person and via telehealth, I’m often struck by just how many of my patients would not have received any mental health treatment before the COVID-19 pandemic: the stay-at-home mother without any childcare; the college student on a rural campus, many miles away from home or a clinic; the middle-aged man who is finally ready for help – but not ready to be seen by a neighbor in the waiting room.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, access to remote mental healthcare sprouted up almost overnight. In 2020, Medicare, a federal health insurance program for seniors and people with disabilities, began covering online mental health, and most state Medicaid programs and private insurers soon followed.

Fewer than 2% of people getting mental health treatment received such care online in 2019 – but now about half receive at least some of their mental healthcare this way.

Undoubtedly, this shift has brought many benefits. Online mental health visits literally meet you where you are – whether in the comfort of your home, a parked car or a quiet space on your break at work. Virtual care offers convenience, ease and privacy.

But with so many choices, it can be hard to decide how to start accessing mental healthcare online. Many patients get stuck trying to find clinicians who can treat their concerns and fit their schedule and budget. But finding an online clinician who fits your needs doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Understand your goals

Whether you are seeking care online or in person, it helps to define what’s troubling you and what you’d like to change. One approach is to write down the symptoms, such as emotions or behaviors, you are experiencing. For example, many people seek treatment for anxiety or mood changes, especially if these feelings are interfering with their daily life.

You should be able to........

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