You will need a device with a functioning camera and audio and a good internet connection.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Virtually your privacy depends on two things, your environment and the security of the connection. Your responsibility is to make sure your environment is private for conversation. The therapist is responsible for making sure the service is secure and HIPPA-compliant.

Technology

At times, you could have problems with your internet, video, or sound.

Crisis Management

It may be difficult for your Provider to provide immediate support during an emergency or crisis. You and your Provider will develop a plan for emergencies or crises, such as choosing a local emergency contact, creating a communication plan, and making a list of local support, emergency, and crisis services.

We will meet virtually via HIPPA-compliant technology at our scheduled time. You will log into your portal or use the link sent before our session. Please ensure your connection is sufficient and the environment is conducive for therapy.

Creating a suitable environment for telehealth is essential to ensure a productive and comfortable experience for both the client and the therapist. Here are some tips for establishing a good telehealth environment:

Quiet and Private Space:

Choose a quiet and private room or area where you won't be easily interrupted.

Use headphones if necessary to enhance privacy and reduce background noise.

Good Lighting:

Ensure that the space is well-lit, allowing your therapist to see you clearly.

Position yourself facing the light source to avoid appearing in shadows.

Comfortable Seating: Sit in a comfortable chair with good posture to maintain focus and engagement during the session.

Position the camera at eye level to create a natural conversational setting.

Minimize Distractions:

Turn off or silence electronic devices not needed for the session.

Inform household members about your scheduled telehealth appointment to minimize interruptions.

Confidentiality:

Choose a location where you can speak freely without concerns about others overhearing.

Consider using headphones to maintain privacy, especially if you share a living space.

Personal Comfort Items:

Have a glass of water nearby in case you need it during the session.

Keep a notebook or journal handy if you like to take notes or jot down thoughts.

Professional Appearance:

Dress as you would for an in-person therapy session to maintain a professional atmosphere.

Consider the background visible to the camera and ensure it is appropriate for a therapeutic setting.

Time Management:

Allocate sufficient time for the session and avoid scheduling appointments in a rushed manner.

Notify your therapist in advance if you anticipate any time constraints.

Technology Check:

Test your camera, microphone, and speakers before the session to ensure they are working properly.

Familiarize yourself with the telehealth platform and troubleshoot any technical issues in advance.

Power up

Make sure your device and backup device are powered up or plugged into a sufficient power source.

Stable Internet Connection:

Use a reliable and high-speed internet connection to minimize disruptions during the session.

Consider connecting to the internet via Ethernet for a more stable connection.

Technical problems can occasionally arise during teletherapy sessions, but there are steps we can take to address them. We need to check our internet connections and power. We can have a backup device or service.

If the problem persists your provider will call you via your telephone number on file and continue the session. If we have to reschedule, we will.

Remember that technical difficulties can happen to anyone. Open communication and a collaborative approach will help ensure that the therapeutic process can continue smoothly, even in the face of technological challenges.

Do not use video or audio to record your session unless you ask your Provider for their permission in advance.

Make sure to let your provider know if you are not in your usual location before starting any telehealth session.