Telehealth Addiction Treatment: What Is It, and How Does It Work?

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a reassessment of healthcare practices, with in-person visits becoming less preferable. Therefore, telehealth offers a secure and efficient solution.

Post-pandemic, Statistics Canada reports that 72.8% of Canadians are likely to continue using the safety and convenience of virtual healthcare, opting for it over direct visits to addiction treatment centres.

The benefits of telehealth addiction treatment include increased accessibility, reduced risk of infectious disease transmission, and improved care coordination.

A Brief History

Before the pandemic, only 27% of addiction treatment centres contained telehealth capabilities. Furthermore, only 0.1% of people used this tool for treatment visits because of government restrictions. The pandemic forced a modification to these restrictions to provide easier access to treatment, causing telehealth to expand.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth (including telemedicine and virtual healthcare) uses virtual communication tools such as smartphone apps, videoconferencing, texting, and telephone to remotely connect individuals to mental health experts. This innovative approach to healthcare changed private addiction treatment, making it accessible and convenient for patients.

Generally, telehealth aims to provide more accessible healthcare:

  • For those in more remote places or further away from healthcare facilities.
  • To eliminate the spread of infectious disease.
  • For better coordination of care between professionals.
  • To allow people to better connect with medical personnel.
  • For easier access to advice regarding the self-management of health.

This method of treatment also provides a way to improve and monitor health issues. For the mental health industry, telehealth was a conduit to facilitate counselling, online therapy, and medication management.

During post-pandemic, telehealth expanded access to online treatments, including therapy groups, psychoeducational groups, family sessions, psychiatry appointments, and case management.

How Telehealth Is Conducted

Telehealth services utilize a private online video conferencing system to maintain confidentiality. Experts provide clients with personalized access codes used throughout the treatment process.

At the Metamorphosis Centre for Change, our team members use call/messaging software or video chat to connect with clients individually. Our experts use conferencing apps and software for group therapy. While most clients prefer using smartphones, individuals can use any device.

If the client isn’t confident using technology, our team is happy to provide instructions on how to begin and get comfortable using the software.

Sessions are secure and pre-scheduled by expert clinicians. They are also HIPAA-compliant, and we ensure no one shares or stores personal information. The sessions are entirely encrypted.

How effective is virtual healthcare for online addiction treatment?

Professionals can conduct outpatient services utilizing virtual alcohol and drug rehabilitation. Those with mild to moderate substance abuse who receive a proper diagnosis/assessment from a qualified professional can access virtual services like:

  • Group therapy
  • Individual therapy
  • Medication for addiction treatment
  • Addiction counselling

The effectiveness of this treatment depends on the addiction’s severity, the individual’s environment, technological comfort level, support network, and the point in their recovery. Also, it may not be advisable for every individual.

What are the benefits?

There are numerous advantages to telehealth treatments. These are as follows:

    • Eliminating the stigma associated with mental health. Many individuals do not want others to know they are struggling with addiction. Reasons include not wanting to be “labelled” by others, the individual being a private person, feeling concerned others will treat them differently, or a desire for increased independence.
    • Anonymity. Often, those experiencing addictions feel shame. Shame prevents people from honestly self-reflecting and taking proactive steps towards treatment. Online support allows individuals to express themselves without concern that others will attach a face to a name. Telehealth also assists those with social anxiety or introverts.
    • Continual supportSupport resources are available whenever needed. While you may only sometimes be able to connect to your support team, the chance you can find a support person to help you is greater. It eliminates feelings of being alone in the struggle, provided you can log into the network and be willing to converse.
    • Expanded support network.Some people appreciate the continual availability of a support network whenever they experience temptation.
    • Convenience.Telehealth is more convenient to those in remote locations, for busy individuals, or it can be a personal preference. Not everyone wants to travel to a treatment centre to deal with addictions. Telehealth allows you to receive treatment in the comfort of your own home.
    • Safety. Some individuals enjoy the fact that they do not have to drive in poor weather conditions to their appointments. Since treatment can also coincide with other mental health issues, some may find it safer to experience therapy in the comfort of their homes.
    • Saves time and money. By eliminating transportation costs or having to leave work as excuses not to continue recovery, more people commit to the process. Treatments prepare individuals to cope with life and allow people to establish a prevention plan.
    • Insight into the person’s environment. Video treatment sessions can help professionals gain insight into a person’s daily life and environment.
    • Recovery is tailored to the individual. Not everyone responds positively to the same things. Some people require different treatment styles or pacing to experience success. Telehealth allows patients to add additional support to treatment tailored to their needs. They can find treatment to suit their lifestyle and personal struggles.
    • Allows for maintenance. People aren’t limited to phone calls or in-person meetings for support. Telehealth will enable patients to develop plans geared towards their success. Since recovery is a personal process, people can tailor their plans to various sources like online recovery forums, virtual meetings, social media groups, and sobriety apps.

Your Start to Recovery

The most challenging aspect of recovery is taking the first step and seeking help. Seeking help allows the person to admit they need assistance and that they cannot overcome addictions on their own. It surrounds the person with those who can physically help them increase their chances of success and who offer support and encouragement.

Metamorphosis Centre for Change

At our treatment centre, clients experience two weekly individual psychotherapy sessions from a Master’s level registered therapist. In addition, there is individual counselling with addiction counsellors.

Our therapists allow people to address deep trauma or unresolved issues that fuel addiction. Counsellors enable individuals to handle emotional distress, go through the workbook, and process unhealthy coping tactics on an ongoing basis.

Online/Hybrid Addiction Therapy

We also provide low-cost, short-term telehealth therapy to clients from our addiction treatment centre. Our programs are two weeks inpatient and two online. Patients have access to compassionate treatment specialists from their homes. Our telehealth services offer the following:

      • Scheduled group meetings
      • Discussions on any device
      • Allows clients to maintain recovery at their convenience
      • Consultations
      • Assessments
      • Medication management
      • Routine follow-ups

To take advantage of our hybrid services, contact the Metamorphosis Centre for Change at 1-855-888-0212 or fill out our online form.

Leave a Comment

Brittany BuchanBrittany Buchan
10:49 21 Dec 22
Metamorphosis literally saved my life .I went to the centre completely broken and honestly just done. But after a month of learning and amazing care from all the medical staff and counsellors ( Rick , Vicky, Troy , Jen , Mel , Nicole ) I left a with a new lease on life and I now look forward to living.I wasn’t sure if this place was for me as I suffer from mental illness and not addiction but although most of the focus was on addictions , it’s very applicable to mental health as well and found myself learning a lot.My primary counsellor Rick was amazing , he lifted me up and helped me see my true potential and worth and guided me in tackling some daunting work and was always there for me when I needed , for hims i am so thankful!My secondary counsellor Vicky was another saving grace for me , we shared a lot of similar stories and she was easy to talk to , always made sure that if I had a issue , it was rectified and she’s definitely a huge blessing to me and my recovery !The only negative thing I have to say is the centre is quite disorganized ( managerially , administratively) and I did feel like I was chasing people to try and receive some of the things that were supposed to be part of my treatment there from family therapy to psychiatry . When I did speak to the owners about this it was dealt with in a productive manner and although in my opinion it wasn’t able to be fixed as it was too far gone ; it was sorted out to the best of their ability .Metamorphosis was the first place I have felt safe , heard , valued and supported and everyone there was amazing I would recommend this centre to others who are looking for a place to heal !
Ada WoodsAda Woods
05:44 02 Oct 22
My time at Metamorphosis Centre was unexpectedly beautiful.I've travelled around the world, and I have to say this was the best month of my life. Nothing compares to this experience and the knowledge I gained. If you are on the fence or looking into treatments centres, I promise this is the place for you!I remember making the decision I needed to go to rehab and being terrified based off what movies portray - I'm 25 - so the picture of the movie "Girl Interrupted" played through my mind. Wow, did Metamorphosis prove me wrong. The gentlemen Todd who answered the phone on the other side of Metamorphosis tackled all my questions with empathy and made me feel comfortable with the decision of going there. I was still hesitant but when I walked through the front doors of Metamorphosis a rush of hope came over me and I felt instantly at home. I was greeted with compassion, understanding, and no judgements. That continued for my 30 days there, as well as after I left. I have a new family; the staff, counsellors, owners, and clients that attended alongside me.The program itself gets to the bottom of addiction by exploring how everything starts with the importance of mental health. They focus on how to love and accept yourself despite decisions or experiences we've all had in life. It is accompanied with beautiful walks and swims at the beach, nature hikes, and fun group activities that taught me I can have fun being sober again. I can be myself and be loved for it.Every single counsellor in the building goes above and beyond with their jobs. It is so evident that they truly give their whole heart to every individual that walks through their front doors. I have done therapy consistently for 2 years prior to going. During my first conversation with head counsellor Rick he got to the root of my problems in that one conversation. (I know my mind was blown too.) I will forever be thankful for Rick, he truly changed my outlook on life, and helped re-build the broken relationships I had with my parents. Vicky, the mom of the building, with the biggest heart. She wasn't even my assigned counsellor but she stood by my side and cheered me on while I figured my life out. Nicole, my primary counsellor provided me with tools to overcome my anxiety and panic attacks. She is such a joy to be around, and lights up any room she walks into. I learned more in a month at Metamorphosis Centre than I had doing therapy for 2 years.To Frank and Chris, the owners, thank you SO much for opening up Metamorphosis Centre, and your determination to make it the best centre out there. In my eyes, you have achieved that. I couldn't imagine my life without this place now.
stephanie beedhamstephanie beedham
19:34 11 Aug 22
Metamorphosis changed my life. It is a treatment center that stands above the rest in every aspect of recovery. The treatment is personalized to each individual's struggle and the staff work one on one to provide the best care possible. My counselor Rick is one of the most wonderful people I have ever met. With years of experience and a heart of gold, he challenged me, taught me and encouraged me to face my addiction and overcome a lifetime of trauma. Vicky is a counselor that will go above and beyond for her clients. She is relentless in her pursuit to make your journey successful. Chris and Frank, the owners, make Metamorphosis a place that people can call home during recovery. Their work is not only amazing...it is beautiful and inspiring. I will forever be grateful for the time I spent at this Centre and urge anyone struggling with mental health or addiction to reach out and look no further than Metamorphosis. It is treatment that will make the difference.
Dennis CDennis C
15:34 02 Apr 22
Metamorphosis showed me how to be the best version of my self . The patience and consideration from all the staff is what makes Metamorphosis different from other centre's. The food was fantastic, I enjoyed the kitchen staff so much I would volunteer cleaning dishes. Frank and Chris gave me an opportunity that allowed me to break the cycle of addiction that I will be forever grateful for. My primary counselor Madison , went above and beyond. Secondary counselor Tom was open and friendly , but took my recovery seriously and helped show me the way into better living. I am still in contact with Tom and he continues to support me with the challenges I face in recovery
Melanie BucciMelanie Bucci
21:39 10 Jan 22
I cannot begin to describe how thankful I am for Metamorphosis for helping me get my life back together. I was in a very dark place when I arrived and I did not know what to expect as this was my first (and last) treatment center I have ever been to. Right away I was made to feel comfortable and at home by the staff and the other clients staying at the center. You can tell that the owners, Frank and Chris, truly care about their clients. My primary counsellor, Jen, was absolutely amazing and I am so grateful for her. She understood me right away and gave me the tools I needed to be successful in my recovery, along with the help of the head counsellor, Rick, and the other counsellors at Metamorphosis. The doctors and therapists that they work with are also excellent and extremely knowledgeable. The food they provided was top notch. Thank you, Metamorphosis, for making me live again and not just survive. This center will always hold a special place in my heart.
js_loader

Addiction Treatment Centre in Ontario

Speak With a Recovery Advisor Today

Please call us at 1-855-888-0212 or fill out the form below and we will be in touch within 24hrs