Updated March 19, 2020

To Those We Serve:

As you are no doubt aware by now, there are unprecedented steps being taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19, mostly through a concept called social distancing.  This means that we should avoid larger gathering places and the like as much as possible and limiting outings to what is essential.  We recognize that some may experience considerable anxiety about this situation, and we wanted to offer you some information.  

First, we are committed to your health as well.  State and national associations representing mental health providers fiercely advocated with insurance companies, Medicare, and the government to allow for continued service to be offered through electronic means (“TeleHealth,” “TeleMedicine,” or “TelePsych” are all words you may hear).  At this time, we know that our patients serviced by Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, Optum/United Behavioral Health, Cigna, and Aetna (for which we are out of network) will all reimburse for services offered via TelePsych (or virtual) as they would if you were seen in the office. 

Second, we explored safe and secure HIPAA-compliant avenues to provide services for those who wish to partake in them.  We are particularly supportive of those who are considered vulnerable to very serious complications or death as a result of this illness making use of these technologies as we are able to make them available, though anyone served in our practice would be able to use this technology.  At this time, all members of our team have secured a means of providing services.  Talk to your therapist and he or she will provide you with the details.

Finally, we wanted to offer a few resources to help manage any anxiety that you might be feeling.  We expect that a few members of our team will be writing something for our blog in the near future (Dr. Ball’s offering will be up shortly).  Also, below are some resources that may be of interest to you  

About Social Distancing – From American Psychological Association, other great links included

Mental Health and COVID-19 – from the Centers for Disease Control

Talking to Kids about COVID-19 – from the National Association of School Psychologists

 Remember: Find reliable news information about what is actually happening.  As of this writing, estimates are that over 80% of those who get the Coronavirus have mild symptoms and most people are recovering.  Because of the potential devastating consequences to those considered vulnerable due to advancing age, underlying medical conditions, and/or compromised immune systems, it is important to exercise appropriate caution.   Supply yourself with a little bit more than you might when your entire family is home for several days, reach out to your friends and family at least virtually to stay connected, and take care of yourselves and each other.