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24 November 2020

What to Expect During Your Telehealth Appointment

Written by

Care Plus NJ

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The COVID-19 pandemic has driven telehealth to become a new normal in behavioral health. Telehealth is convenient, effective, safe, eliminates travel and makes seeing a clinician easier and faster. 

Some people may not know what to expect and how to prepare, especially if it’s your first telemedicine appointment. We’ll walk you through how to prepare before your appointment, how to log on, and what to expect during and after your appointment. 

Before Your Telemedicine Appointment

  1. Pick a comfortable, quiet and private location with adequate lighting. 
  2. Decide which device you will be using. 
  3. Check your technology to be sure you have a strong Internet connection.
  4. Be sure that the camera and microphone are on and working.
  5. Prepare notes on what you want to discuss during your telehealth visit. Writing notes will ensure you don’t forget anything and have all questions answered.
  6. Make a list of all your current prescriptions (if a new client).

You will receive a call from one of our staff before your appointment to guide you through the easy registration process of our telehealth software and help with any technical issues or concerns. 

We use Netsmart, a leading national behavioral health technology company, to conduct our HIPAA-compliant, private telehealth sessions. You can access your online therapy session using:

  • Laptop or desktop computer
  • Smart phone
  • Tablet 

You can find more instructions under the client resource tab on our main website.

On the Day of Your Appointment

On the day of your appointment, get your technology ready and be sure your device is charged. Remind anyone else in the house that you should not be disturbed during your appointment time. You will be contacted prior to your appointment to complete any necessary paperwork through our virtual kiosk. Check the link to start your video session and to be sure it works and that you remember how to do it.

Sign in and get started 15 minutes before your appointment time. You’ll be placed in a virtual “waiting room,” and your clinician will start your appointment at the correct time. Should a technical issue arise, call our front desk technical support at (201)265-8200.

Your safety and privacy are extremely important to us. Care Plus NJ provides the high-quality care you need, and has implemented this telehealth service to improve access to care. You’ll receive real-time quality service and convenient access to therapeutic treatment in the comfort of your home. Contact us to make an appointment. We are here and ready to help you!

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Belief

Belief refers to the confidence, faith, and conviction that individuals have in their ability to overcome addiction, make positive changes in their lives, and maintain long-term recovery. In substance use recovery learning self efficacy (self-belief), challenging negative beliefs, creating a positive mindset, and investing in new values gained from addressing one’s substance use disorder and Behavioral Health issues – improves oneself, relationships, and the future.

Every patient at Care Plus NJ has access to Behavioral Health professionals, including psychiatrists, and psychologists. In addition, each is assigned a case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, and peer recovery specialist who play a pivotal role in the treatment process.

As a Behavioral Health professional, they guide education, group therapy and support groups and other Behavioral Health services as indicated based on each persons needs.

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Motivation

Motivation refers to the internal drive, desire, and commitment of an individual to initiate and sustain positive changes in their behavior, lifestyle, and overall well-being. It is a crucial factor in the C.L.I.M.B. recovery process, as overcoming addiction often requires significant effort, perseverance, and a genuine commitment to change.

Motivated individuals in recovery set clear and realistic goals for themselves. Utilizing the stages of change model, Care Plus NJ walks patients through various stages of a substance use disorder, including precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and relapse prevention. Understanding these stages helps individuals navigate their unique recovery journey.

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Insight

Insight refers to a deep and clear understanding of oneself, one’s behaviors, and the factors contributing to substance abuse. It involves gaining awareness into the root causes of addiction, recognizing patterns of behavior, and developing a clearer understanding of the impact of substance use on various aspects of one’s life. Insight is a critical component of the recovery process as it provides a foundation for positive change and sustained recovery.

Insight involves exploring the underlying issues that may contribute to drug abuse, such as past severe psychological distresss, Behavioral Health issues, or unresolved emotional challenges. Addressing these root causes is essential for long-term recovery.

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Courage

Courage in the context of recovering from drug addiction, refers to the ability to confront and overcome the challenges and fears associated with the recovery process in a person’s life. It involves facing one’s vulnerabilities, acknowledging the need for change, and taking positive steps toward a healthier and drug-free life.

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Love

Love plays a significant and multifaceted role in the process of recovery from drug and substance abuse. Having a network of supportive and understanding family members, friends, or partners is immensely valuable during the recovery journey. Community, fellowship and support groups emphasize the importance of connection with others who understand the challenges of addiction. Repairing relationships damaged by substance use often involves acts of love, forgiveness, and rebuilding trust.

In essence, love in the context of substance use recovery encompasses self-love, support from others, understanding, accountability, community, rebuilding relationships, and a renewed appreciation for life.

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