Telehealth & Virtual Addiction Treatment
Telehealth lets you meet with licensed clinicians by secure video or phone. Many people use virtual care for therapy, medication check-ins (when appropriate), and recovery support from home, work, or on the go.
Our website is for information only. We help you understand your options and prepare for conversations with licensed providers, but we do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.
What Telehealth Is
Telehealth means getting addiction and mental health care through secure technology instead of going to a clinic in person. Depending on the program, you may be able to:
- Attend individual therapy
- Join some group sessions
- Learn with tailored skills coachin
- Take part in family meetings (with consent)
- Have certain medication follow-ups
- Discharge planning and aftercare check-ins
Who Virtual Care May Help
Virtual care may be a good fit for those with limited transportation, tight schedules or caregiving duties, or live far fromm clinics or specialists. A clinician will review your needs and risks and may suggest virtual, in-person, or a mix of both.
When In-Person May Be Better
In-person care may be safer if:
- Withdrawal risks are high
- You may need medical monitoring
- There are active safety concerns
- You need physical exams, labs, or certain tests
In these cases, a clinician may recommend detox, inpatient care, or a day program. Some urine screens or assessments may still need in-person visits even if most care is virtual.
Getting Set Up
You will usually need:
- A phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone
- Stable internet or phone service
- A private, quiet space for the visit
- Headphones for extra privacy
- A backup phone number in case the call drops
- Any forms or ID your program requests
Your program may offer a test call or instructions before your first visit.
Tips for a Good Virtual Session
- Join 5–10 minutes early to test audio and video
- Sit somewhere private and ask others at home for quiet time
- Turn on Do Not Disturb or silence notifications
- Have water, tissues, and a notepad nearby
- If you lose connection, try to rejoin or wait for a call from your clinician
- At the start, share your physical location in case of a safety concern
Privacy & Safety
Programs use secure platforms and follow privacy laws. You control who is in the room with you. If safety concerns come up, for you or others, your clinician will follow emergency plans and local laws to help keep you safe.
Insurance & Costs
Coverage depends on your plan, network, and medical needs. Programs can check benefits, but your insurer makes the final decision. Ask about self-pay or payment plans if needed.
How to Choose a Telehealth or Virtual Program
- Check for state license and accreditation
- Ask about medical and psychiatric staff availability
- Review safety policies and detox support
- Confirm aftercare planning and insurance coverage
Choosing the right program means finding a safe, accredited place that meets your needs and supports long-term recovery. Take time to ask questions and compare options before deciding.
Virtual Groups & Community
Some programs offer online group therapy, skills groups or workshops, and alumni or peer meetings. Ask about group rules for privacy (such as cameras on, no recording, no screenshots), how to report concerns or disruptions, and what they expect for attendance and participation. Peer support, whether virtual or in person, can be a helpful add-on to therapy.
Medications (When Appropriate)
For some alcohol and opioid use disorders, FDA-approved medications may be started or managed with telehealth, or managed with a blend of in-person and virtual visits. Rules depend on your location and the type of medication. Your prescriber will explain risks, benefits, alternatives, and any in-person requirements.
FAQs
Is virtual care as effective as in-person?
For many needs, yes. Telehealth can work well for talk therapy, skills practice, and some medication follow-ups. If your risks are higher, a clinician may recommend in-person care instead.
Can I join from my car or workplace?
If it is safe, private, and allowed by your program, yes. Do not join while driving or doing tasks that need your full attention.
What if my internet drops?
Use your backup plan, such as rejoining the video call or switching to a phone call. Your clinician will tell you what to do if the connection fails.
Will insurance cover telehealth?
Often, but not always. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and local rules. It is best to check benefits before you start.
Can I do group therapy online?
Many programs offer virtual groups. Policies vary on camera use, attendance rules, and technology requirements. Ask your program what to expect.
Helpful Resources
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help
If you are in danger or thinking of self-harm, call 911 (or your local emergency number). In the US, dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.