Therapy by Phone - Is this something you would consider?
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Elizabeth_WebMD_Staff posted:
New research shows people suffering major depression are more likely to get psychotherapy if it's offered by phone.

I can think of a couple reasons why this would be effective, for some just the thought of leaving the house can leave them overwhelmed and exhausted.

Depression Treatment by Phone

Would you consider this type of therapy? Do therapists offer this in your community?

Elizabeth
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Jeune1 responded:
YES!!! (In big red flashing font)

Not only does it remove the hassle of "one more thing" it removes the excuses (I have to work, too busy &c.) I also have a big problem with watching for non-verbal cues and misinterpreting them. I've never left a therapy session NOT convinced that I had bored and/or irritated my therapist based on my interpretation of their body language. But if I couldn't see them, I wouldn't be able to do that.

One thing to note - I believe Medicare does cover psychotherapy via telemedicine. But the rules for that are tricky. Still, something maybe to ask about if you're on Medicare.
 
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susiemargaret responded:
hello, elizabeth --

i've asked for an apptmt by phone with my therapist/psychiatric nurse practitioner, but she works in a university psychiatry clinic and said there was no way to bill it. i don't see why not, but i decided that i needed to get out of the house (always a problem when i feel really crummy), to see her body language, and that it was worth driving half an hr to see her.

i don't know if psychiatrists and therapists here offer therapy by phone as a matter of course. i have, however, talked with one or the other of them for 15 mins or so when i've been practically paralyzed with depression or have gotten confused about my meds. i've never been billed for those times.

by the way, welcome!

-- susie margaret
what good is gold, or silver too, if your heart's not good and true -- hank williams, sr.
 
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Demons2011 responded:
Interesting idea, Much like the forums here but with professionals. Suppose it could work for some, especially those in immediate need, Kind of like McDonalds drive thru. Not aware of anyone in my area providing this type of service. Not sure if it would help those that are in an isolation period. Can't see any major negatives initially.
 
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niteflier replied to Demons2011's response:
I saw a counselor for about 5 years. I wish I could now do my counseling with him by phone as I have moved and the location is quite the distance with construction all the way. I don't know if I would do it by phone without meeting the psych/counselor as I do have trust issues. I agree that it may not work for those that are (as D said) in the isolation period. When I first started seeing my counselor it made me get out, if even for only for an hour. I think it might work for immediate needs as well, but believe it would benefit more if the individual had a few sessions with the counselor/psych to get- a trust bonded first. Although, this community has helped me and i have not been face to face with anyone here. I would welcome it now that I have a counselor I trust and know.
Niteflier

Perhaps the Animal Spirit is so great that one day it may inspire compassion in the human heart. Nan Sea Love

 
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jaws86 replied to niteflier's response:
No way .Ineed to know who I am talking to and the different facial and body expressions are important to me.
 
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Demons2011 responded:
An_245937 mentioned therapy by Skyping in their post. Seems that would be better? Face to face with out the hassel of driving to and from. Facial expressions and tone would blend, maybe give some of the body language clues needed to know the sincerity of the individual. Might eliminate the day to day distractions of the office for the therapist. Not aware of that service being available in my area either.
 
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sweetypie295 responded:
Yes, my therapist does offer that & I think its so great.
 
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ffltat responded:
I know that my tdoc will talk to me on the phone anytime that I need him. and I have heard him say that he will do skype sessions. but honestly I like being in the same room.