TWIN FALLS, Idaho — When Governor little announced the stay-at-home order, the Idaho Psychological Association shifted their focus to one service they already offered, but knew would benefit everyone at this point in time: telehealth.
"The need is just so incredibly high, so many people are worried. People have financial stress. We see increases in anxiety, a lot of people are having sleep difficulties. Psychologists are experts in trying to help people deal with these kinds of issues, so it's a great time to seek support, get a little assistance and work with a medical professional who could help," Dr. Amy Walters, Public Education Chair of Idaho Psychological Association, said.
Walters says psychologists have been using telehealth services for years. Still, with the pandemic, the need for telehealth services grew because it is a safer alternative than face-to-face therapy.
"The goal is to maintain contact with people we are already serving as well as offer some services to people who are medically fragile and have several risk factors and are trying to limit any exposure. So, it is a great way to open up access," Walters said.
Their goal is also to continue offering these services, even as things start to go back to normal.
"That's the hope, at this point, is that this will create a new service line that many people will be able to access. Especially some of the people in our rural and remote areas, we're hoping that it will allow them to get the support services they need," Walters said.
Walters says she is grateful they were able to accommodate and offer these services at this time.
"I'm thrilled that we're able to do this. I think it is important for people to get that support. This is such an important time of adjustment we want to connect with people, and there are lots of mental health doctors ready to help," Walters said.
To learn more about their services, you can visit their website.
