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Introduction to telehealth for behavioral health care
Behavioral health — like other areas of health care — has changed significantly due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. Mental health providers can now offer and get reimbursed for behavioral telehealth services.
Behavioral telehealth also benefits patients who can access care from their homes with more options for safety, privacy, and convenience.
Behavioral telehealth may also be referred to as telebehavioral health, telemental health, telepsychiatry, or telepsychology.
Types of telebehavioral health
Mental health providers use online and digital mental health tools to deliver one-on-one therapy.
Group teletherapy is usually done online and offers added mental health benefits of community, reduced feelings of isolation, and new perspectives.
Virtual, telebehavioral health care can be part of an integrated approach to treating substance use disorders.