Holiday Telehealth Guide
Managing Holiday Stress From the Comfort of Your Home
Professional telehealth support when you need it most
In crisis? View emergency resources
The Holiday Stress Reality
The Problem Nobody Talks About
The holidays can trigger:
- •Increased anxiety and depression
- •Family conflict and tension
- •Loneliness and social isolation
- •Overwhelming pressure to be "perfect" or "happy"
Traditional therapy barriers—commute time, scheduling conflicts, holiday traffic—make it harder to access support when you need it most. Many people put their mental health on hold during the busiest season, making things worse.
You're Not Alone
Holiday stress affects people across all ages and life circumstances. Recognizing you need support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Professional help is accessible right now—even during the busiest time of year.
What This Guide Offers
- •Practical tools to manage holiday stress right now
- •Information about how telehealth removes barriers to getting help
- •Real strategies from a small practice that truly knows you
- •Permission to prioritize your mental health this season
Why Telehealth Changes Everything This Season
No Commute, No Excuses
Sessions from your couch, car (safely parked!), or any private space. No driving through holiday traffic or rearranging your schedule around office hours.
Fits Your Holiday Schedule
Between cooking dinner and wrapping presents? That works. Early morning before the family wakes up? Perfect. Evening sessions available when in-person offices are closed.
Your Space, Your Comfort
Some people feel more comfortable opening up from home. You control the environment, privacy, and comfort level.
Same Quality Care, Different Delivery
Research shows telehealth therapy is as effective as in-person for most concerns. You get the same licensed clinician, same evidence-based treatment—just without the barriers.
Important: Montesano offers telehealth in English, Spanish, and Hindi, making professional support accessible to more families during the holidays.
Understanding Holiday Stress & Warning Signs
Recognizing When You Need Support
Holiday stress manifests differently across ages. Here's what to watch for:
Adults
- •Sleep changes (insomnia or oversleeping)
- •Irritability or mood swings
- •Physical symptoms (headaches, stomach issues)
- •Withdrawal from social activities
- •Increased alcohol or substance use
Teens (Ages 13-18)
- •Grades dropping or loss of interest in school
- •Increased conflict with family
- •Changes in eating patterns
- •Social media obsession or complete withdrawal
Children (Ages 5-12)
- •Regression (bedwetting, baby talk)
- •Nightmares or fear of separation
- •Acting out or tantrums
- •Physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches)
Relationships
- •Frequent arguments about money or family obligations
- •Avoiding important conversations
- •Feeling disconnected despite being together
- •One partner taking on all holiday responsibilities
Practical Tools for Holiday Anxiety & Family Stress
Boundary-Setting Scripts
Use these phrases to protect your energy and mental health:
5-Minute Resets When Overwhelmed
- •Step outside for fresh air, even in winter
- •Box breathing: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4
- •Bathroom break (yes, hiding in the bathroom counts)
- •Text a supportive friend just to vent
- •Scroll something calming (nature photos, not news)
Permission Slips for the Holidays
You have permission to:
Making Telehealth Work for You
What You'll Need
- •A phone, tablet, or computer with camera and microphone
- •Reliable internet connection
- •A private, quiet space (even your car works!)
- •Headphones recommended for privacy
Privacy During the Holidays
If you're staying with family:
- •Take a "work call" in your room
- •Use your car (parked safely)
- •Schedule during a walk or errand time
- •Simply say "I have an appointment" (you don't owe details)
The Technology is Simple
Montesano uses HIPAA-compliant video platforms. You'll receive a link via email—just click it at your appointment time. No downloads or complicated setup required.
Technical issues? Montesano staff can help you test your connection before your first session.
The Montesano Advantage: Personalized Telehealth Care
Why a Small Practice Makes a Difference
- •Small caseloads mean your clinician actually remembers you
- •Personalized matching to a clinician who fits your needs
- •Flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends
- •Evidence-based treatment tailored to you, not a one-size-fits-all approach
Accessibility
- •Multilingual services in English, Spanish, and Hindi
- •Insurance accepted including Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, UHC, UMR, and Illinois Medicaid
- •Self-pay options available
A licensed clinician will answer when you call (224) 603-2058. Not a receptionist, not a call center—a real clinician who can help you decide if telehealth is right for you.
Getting Started With Your First Telehealth Appointment
What to Expect
Before Your Session
- •Complete intake paperwork online (takes 10-15 minutes)
- •Test your technology using the link provided
- •Find a private, comfortable space
During Your First Session
- •Your clinician will explain how telehealth works
- •You'll discuss what brought you to therapy
- •Together, you'll create initial goals
- •You'll decide on a regular schedule (if ongoing therapy)
After Your Session
- •Schedule your next appointment if needed
- •You may receive resources or homework (optional)
- •Billing handled automatically if using insurance
Nervous about your first session? That's completely normal. Your clinician expects this and will help you feel comfortable.
Getting Help When You Need It
Schedule Your Telehealth Appointment
Call (224) 603-2058
A licensed clinician will answer and can:
- •Answer questions about telehealth
- •Verify your insurance coverage
- •Schedule your first appointment (often within days)
- •Match you with the right clinician for your needs
Or visit: montesanopsych.com
Insurance & Payment
Montesano accepts most major insurance plans:
- •Aetna
- •Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
- •Cigna
- •UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
- •UMR
- •Illinois Medicaid
Self-pay options available. Call for rates.
In Crisis? Get Help Now
If you're in immediate danger or having thoughts of harming yourself or others, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Montesano: (224) 603-2058 (business hours)
Ready to Take the First Step?
Professional telehealth support is just a phone call away.
Call (224) 603-2058 NowMontesano Psychological Center
Phone: (224) 603-2058 | Website: montesanopsych.com
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are in crisis, please call 988 or 911 immediately.
© 2025 Montesano Psychological Center. All rights reserved.
