Policy & Procedures
This is the policy that gives the benefits and risks that comes with providing services via phone, internet, or in person. The benefit of being able to use telehealth for the patient is client and clinician to engage services mobility is convenient without having to be in the same physical location especially during the pandemic. It can be helpful during this time to ensure that the continuity of care for you the patient is able to be given in the same quality as the service would be rendered in person. While telehealth comes with many benefits there are few things that we should address which would be how minor technical competency is need in order to have productive session which you will be assisted with each session. That is a major key point but from a legal aspect there are three component that you are at risk of: When using this service, there is a risk of confidentiality issues rather they are overheard from others outside of your place or in your space, there are times where you may encounter technology related issues, the response to crisis management and interventions may not be the same as in person session. As the clinician I will go above and beyond to resolve each of these issues on my part to create the best quality experience. There will be an emergency response plan addressed at the beginning of each session to direct to the best level of care in your area that will include emergency contacts for immediate resources nearby.
Electronic Communications
There will be certain phone and computer services that will be needed in order to utilized telehealth services provided. It is the responsibility of you the client to make sure to have the necessary equipment and/or accessories in order to take part in the telehealth sessions. During treatment you may have questions outside of your sessions and that is fine we would love to help. When sending electronic communication please allow me to return communication within 1-3 business days of your initial send receipt to make contact with you except for weekends and holidays. In the event that there is an emergency please contact the hotline provided in the list of paperwork provided or 911 for your emergency needs. Shoud you feel yourself in crisis be sure to contact your local community mental health center IMMEDIATELY.
Confidentiality
I have a legal and ethical obligation to make the best efforts to the best of my abilities to protect all communications transferred throughout the telehealth services. However, the nature of electronic communications is such that I cannot always guarantee that our communications will be kept confidential or other people cannot gain access to our communication due to hackers, company hacks, etc. I will to the best of my abilities use encryptions that are up to date, firewalls and backup systems to make sure that the information is kept private and nothing is left to chance to be compromised, unsecured, or accessed by others.
Fees
The same price or fees will apply for telehealth that you would normally pay for during in person therapy. Fees are due before the session begins unless prior instructions have been given in written communication for other instructions. There is a sliding scale that will be used to determine your fee based on your income and the ability to pay. Should you feel that the services provided to you are less than desirable, there can be some assistance provided to you in referring you out to another provider. All services are nonrefundable.