Telehealth

The collective anxiety shared across the nation during COVID-19 resulted in more than half of Americans reporting the pandemic had a negative impact on their mental health. As a therapist, I saw the increased desire for counseling services in Virginia. In 2021, “36.9% of adults in Virginia reported symptoms of anxiety or depression,” according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. But due to stayat-home orders and quarantine restrictions, in-person sessions were no longer an option. We had to innovate.

I was hesitant to adopt virtual counseling sessions for many reasons, including the inability to determine if my patients were in a safe environment at home. However, I came to realize online options not only kept my business afloat, but expanded my practice to an audience I otherwise couldn’t reach.

Telehealth services allow providers to reach patients across the state, including those in rural or remote areas who can’t typically access quality providers in their region. Telehealth technology saves patients money and time, reduces urgent care visits and provides savings to payers. This is important due to the existing digital divide between evolving tech and underserved communities.

The key to improving access to mental health services is keeping technological innovation at the forefront in our state. Unfortunately, policymakers are considering sweeping legislation that restricts technology without considering the importance of an open and accessible internet. As we continue to navigate this post-COVID-19 world, policymakers must continue to support technological innovation in Virginia, which supports access to mental health resources for more than 8.6 million Virginians.

— Alonda Alloway; owner of Loudoun Counseling & Coaching, LCC; Loudoun County