Times are tough. There’s no denying it.

As our state, country, and world grapple with the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) — and the resulting social distancing we are encouraged to practice — many of us find ourselves discouraged or worse. And that’s completely understandable.

But we don’t have to stay in this state of mind forever. With help, we can face this uncertainty . . . even if we can’t always see each other face to face.

Here at Kimberly Keiser & Associates, we aren’t letting COVID-19 affect our business or, more importantly, our clients. That’s why we are happy to announce that we have recently become a certified tele-health clinic.

Now (and forevermore), you can visit with our therapists via online counseling sessions in South Dakota.

What Is Telemental Health Counseling?

Telemental health counseling, or tele-health, refers to mental health therapy that is conducted over electronic media.

In these primarily online counseling sessions, you and your provider meet virtually via a safe, HIPAA-compliant service (we use Clocktree or Zoom).

Once you have agreed to our telehealth consent form, you may prepare for your online session by choosing a confidential space and ensuring your technology and Internet are set up correctly. (Your therapist will do the same.)

Then, you will meet with your therapist, just as you normally would in person. Our counselors are committed to providing you the same high level of service you would receive in our office.

With the spread of coronavirus in our Sioux Falls community, our team has spent the last few weeks working diligently to become a certified tele-health clinic.

We are pleased to now offer our online therapy sessions to the entire state of South Dakota — and we will continue to do so, even after social distancing is a thing of the past.

3 Benefits of Tele-Health Online Counseling

Wondering whether online counseling is right for you?

Although it is well validated by research, tele-health counseling is not appropriate for everyone. We suggest you talk to any member of our team if you have any concerns.

However, most clients can certainly benefit from tele-health therapy. Here are three reasons you may want to try tele-health.

1. Expanded Access

Many South Dakotans are used to traveling to receive healthcare services.

With tele-health therapy, as long as you have an Internet connection, you can access our Sioux Falls counseling services from wherever you live.

2. Breaks Down Barriers

Historically, the negative stigma around mental health has been a barrier for many people to initiate the counseling services they need.

By receiving tele-health services from the safety of your home, you can overcome that barrier . . . and begin to overcome other personal barriers, too.

3. Flexibility for Individuals

Even with social distancing — and especially once it stops — our lives are busy. But you should never let a busy schedule prevent you from maintaining your mental health.

Since tele-health counseling omits the time spent driving to and from your appointment and waiting to meet with your therapist, you not only enjoy a more convenient session, you also save yourself time.

Learn More About Tele-Health in South Dakota

Don’t let COVID-19 — or anything else — get you down.

With our new tele-health counseling services, there is no reason not to reach out and request the help you need. (Hey, we all need help here!)

We would love to tell you more about what tele-health therapy looks like and discuss whether it’s a fit for you. Please reach out to our team for more information or to request an online appointment.