Transportation Solutions for Mental Health Care

Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse disorders (SUDs) can affect every aspect of a person's life, taking a toll on work, relationships, and both physical health and emotional wellness. Even sleep can be affected.

But despite their far-reaching consequences, mental health issues are very treatable with custom therapy plans tailored to each person's needs, goals, and challenges. Unfortunately, many people find accessing those services can be very challenging, thanks in large part to transportation problems.

Not having a personal vehicle, poor or no access to public transportation, anxiety about crowded buses, or the need to arrange care for a loved one in your absence — there are all sorts of ways transportation issues can get in the way of mental healthcare. Here, Temika Heyward, PhD, FNP, CRNP, PMH, and her team describe two solutions that can help patients at Conduit Behavioral Health overcome these challenges, enabling them to reap the benefits of consistent therapy.

Telehealth: Therapy from the comfort of home

Telehealth has been around for a while, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, it gained significantly more attention and traction among providers and patients alike. Through telehealth (or telemedicine), patients can receive the same high-quality mental healthcare in the comfort and privacy of their own homes — or anywhere with a secure internet connection.

Better still, using telehealth couldn't be easier, thanks to our secure, patient-friendly system. The first step: Locate a quiet, private area in your chosen location where you'll feel comfortable and free to speak openly. Ensure the space you choose has internet access. Then, a few minutes before your scheduled appointment time, simply use your phone, tablet, or computer to log in to our portal using the private credentials we provide.

Your telehealth session will "work" just like an in-person visit: You'll discuss your concerns, review "homework" from your prior session, participate in therapy activities, and even receive prescriptions or refills when needed. Not only is telehealth a much more convenient option for many patients, but it also supports regular, consistent treatment, a necessary part of managing chronic issues and improving mental health over time.

Door-to-door transportation for in-person visits

While telehealth can be ideal for many types of therapy, there are times when an in-person visit is a better fit — and there may also be times when you prefer to talk to your therapist in person. In such instances, we offer an alternative solution for individuals with transportation issues: door-to-door transportation.

Like our telehealth services, the transportation services we provide are designed to help patients access the treatment they need without struggling with the hassles, inconvenience, or the impossibility of arranging a ride. It's also ideal for people overwhelmed by navigating public transportation options and for those who feel unsafe or "stressed out" by the large crowds they encounter.

By eliminating these obstacles, you can focus your time and energy on your therapy and progress toward better emotional health and wellness.

Don’t let transportation issues stand in your way

Your emotional well-being has a significant impact on every aspect of your life, including your physical health. Don't let transportation difficulties prevent you from getting the care you need to get better.

To learn how we can help you receive the care you need, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Heyward and the team at Conduit Behavioral Health in Baltimore, Maryland, today.