What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Therapy Referral

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for PTSD, you may receive a referral to a therapist or mental health specialist. This referral helps connect you with professionals who can provide ongoing therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other treatments tailored to your needs. Your healthcare provider may discuss therapy options, explain what to expect in future sessions, and offer resources for support. It's important to follow up on referrals and attend recommended appointments to manage symptoms effectively. Telemedicine visits allow you to start this process conveniently from home but often require in-person or virtual follow-up therapy sessions. If your symptoms worsen or you experience new challenges, seek help promptly. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful first step but not a replacement for comprehensive mental health care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide — seek emergency care or contact a crisis hotline immediately.
• Severe worsening of symptoms such as intense panic, hallucinations, or inability to care for yourself — contact emergency services.
• Sudden loss of contact with your therapist or healthcare provider when you feel unsafe or unwell — reach out to emergency or mental health crisis resources.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment and discussion of PTSD symptoms.
• Providing referrals to mental health specialists or therapists.
• Offering education about PTSD and treatment options.
• Scheduling follow-up telemedicine visits for monitoring progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency mental health crises requiring immediate in-person intervention.
• Prescribing or managing complex medication regimens without in-person evaluation.
• Performing physical examinations or procedures.
• Providing long-term psychotherapy exclusively through one telemedicine visit.

Understanding Your Telemedicine Visit for PTSD

During your telemedicine appointment, a healthcare provider will talk with you about your symptoms, experiences, and how PTSD affects your daily life. They may ask about your mental health history and current challenges. This visit helps identify your needs and whether therapy or other treatments might help. The provider may explain different therapy types and suggest a referral to a mental health specialist for ongoing care.

What to Expect After Receiving a Therapy Referral

If referred to a therapist, you will typically be contacted to schedule your first therapy session. Therapy may be offered in person or through telehealth, depending on availability and your preference. Common therapy approaches for PTSD include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Preparing for Your Therapy Sessions

Before your therapy sessions, it helps to:

Monitoring Your Progress and When to Seek Help

Therapy often takes time, and progress may be gradual. Keep track of how you feel between sessions and share this with your therapist. If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased anxiety, thoughts of self-harm, or difficulty functioning, seek immediate help. Emergency services or crisis hotlines are available in urgent situations.

How Telemedicine Supports PTSD Care

Telemedicine can help you start mental health care quickly and safely from home. It allows for flexible scheduling and access to specialists who may not be nearby. However, ongoing therapy often requires multiple sessions and sometimes in-person visits. Telemedicine is a tool to connect you with care but works best as part of a broader treatment plan.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space for your telemedicine visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, concerns, and questions.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes.
• Inform a trusted person about your appointment in case you need support.

After your tele-visit

• Schedule and attend therapy sessions as recommended.
• Follow your therapist's guidance and treatment plan.
• Keep a journal of your symptoms and progress.
• Reach out to your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new issues arise.
• Use available support resources such as support groups or helplines.

FAQs

What types of therapy might I be referred to after a telemedicine visit?

You may be referred to therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). These therapies help process trauma and manage PTSD symptoms.

Can I receive therapy entirely through telemedicine?

Many therapists offer virtual sessions, which can be effective. However, some situations may require in-person visits. Your therapist will guide you on the best approach.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after the telemedicine visit?

If you experience severe symptoms like thoughts of self-harm, intense panic, or inability to function, seek emergency help immediately. Contact crisis hotlines or emergency services as needed.

How soon will I start therapy after a referral?

The timing varies depending on therapist availability and your preferences. Try to schedule your first session as soon as possible to begin support.

Is telemedicine safe and private for discussing PTSD?

Yes, telemedicine platforms use secure technology to protect your privacy. Make sure you are in a private space to talk openly during your visit.

Sources

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. PTSD Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telehealth for Mental Health Care — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can be a helpful step in managing PTSD but is not a substitute for in-person care when needed. Always seek immediate help for emergencies or worsening symptoms.