Telehealth Step by Step
Before your session starts.
- We use Simple Practice which is a secure and HIPAA-compliant video platform that is accessible via computer, tablet and/or smartphone that has a camera and a microphone OR the ability to use headphones or earbuds with a microphone.
- Find a place to yourself where you can be alone. This could be your bedroom, a home office or even your parked car.
- Identify which device you will use. If you are going to use your smart phone, download the Telehealth by Simple Practice app. Make sure you will be connected to high speed internet or wifi. Connection strength is important for your session to run smoothly.
- Use headphones or earbuds if you're able. This will increase your privacy as well as improve audio.
- Phone: Download the Telehealth by Simple Practice app and make sure you are able to access it and it is working correctly.
- Make sure you're comfortable. There is no need to worry about the mess. Grab yourself something to drink if you want and even feel free to wear your PJs!
Starting Your Session.
- Please plan to log in 10 minutes prior to the start of each session. This allows time to log in, remember passwords and troubleshoot any connection issues. Your therapist will connect with you in your Client Portal to begin your session. Each session works very similarly to a Skype or FaceTime video but is hippaa compliant and secure to protect your confidentiality.
- Phone: use the Telehealth by Simple Practice app that you have previously downloaded. Copy and paste your video URL to get started and click "Enter Video Call." Simple!
Accessibility.
- One of the reasons we use Simple Practice is the reputation it has for seamless video sessions. It offers secure messaging feature so that you can communicate easily with your therapist about your needs. There is also a screen sharing feature as well as the ability to join a group.
- Each group participant must be connected via their own computer. Smart phones and tablets do not work with groups.
Benefits.
Risks.
- Ease and convenience
- Similar and/or identical outcomes to in-person therapy
- Customized care
- Comfort of your home environment
- Less need for transportation and/or childcare
- Covered by most insurance just like traditional therapy
Risks.
- Telehealth is not designed for psychiatric crisis or managing suicide risk
- Research is still being gathered on overall benefits and risks
- Communication can be lost due to inability to assess body language and clarification may be required to prevent miscommunication
- Internet connection may be disrupted is some fashion which could cause a session to be delayed or re-scheduled
- Your therapist can not guarantee complete confidentiality on your end. Your therapist can only guarantee confidentiality on their end
Remember
- Once your appointment is scheduled, you will be sent some forms. One is a TeleHealth Informed Consent. Another is an Emergency Contact form. Both of these will need to be completed prior to your first session via our Secure Client Portal. There is an electronic signature. So, no need to print, scan or upload. Just complete electronically and send, similar to sending an email.
- You will need to be physically located in the state of Virginia to participate, per our licensing requirements. Your therapist will confirm this with you at the start of each session.
- Your therapist may ask you to share whether others are or are not present during your session.
- You always have the right to ask questions and clarify any part of the telehealth process and whether your therapist is in a secure and confidential location.