Before taking on the role of president and COO at the teletherapy company Talkspace, Mark Hirschhorn spent seven years in the telemedicine industry. As a Talkspace executive, Mark Hirschhorn has a professional interest in innovative approaches to behavioral health treatment and the mental health needs of the public.
This year, anxiety has greatly increased in many people. However, accessing qualified counselors at affordable rates is difficult for many, especially the underinsured and people living in remote areas.
App-based teletherapy programs such as Talkspace are meeting the demand for convenient and affordable mental health services. Research has shown that counseling sessions held through video conferencing software or over the phone are just as effective as in-person therapy.
Teletherapy may be a better option for people whose anxiety manifests as agoraphobia or social anxiety. In addition to talking to patients about their emotions and day-to-day experiences, teletherapy providers also may offer useful journal exercises or meditations to help patients manage their symptoms between sessions.
Mark Hirschhorn 