Telehealth Overview
This practice utilizes Setmore Health for appointment scheduling and reminders. You may self-book using this link: https://counselingwithinreachpllc.setmore.com/ From the calendar invite, you will click 'Join Video Meeting' to access the Google Meet video session. Once the invitation is received, you can do a pre-session test at any time by clicking 'Join video meeting,' 'Check your audio and video," and then 'Capture and diagnose.' This will verify that your camera, speaker, microphone, and connection will support the video session. It is recommended that you log in 5 minutes before the start time. If you are disconnected from a session, you can attempt to rejoin using the initial link. If a video connection is not able to be established for a scheduled session due to slow speeds, outages, or technological difficulties, the therapist will call, message, or email you to reschedule. I use Spruce Health as a secure communication method. To connect with my practice, follow this link: https://spruce.care/counselingwithinreachpllc If you choose to download this app, the platform can serve as a back-up telehealth system, as well as a messaging system and document sending portal.
Telehealth can be as effective as in-person care when there is a match between the presenting concerns, the
client's preferences, and comfort levels with the technology. Telehealth is not the recommended treatment method in certain sitautions, including, but not limited to: An immediate, mental health crisis; psychosis; active substance use; unstable living environment; lack of privacy; discomfort with technology; or incompatible devices. In these instances, or others that are determined by the therapist or the client, referrals will be given for a higher level of care or for in-person services.
Conditions for telehealth service delivery
- I will send in a copy of driver's license for identity verification purposes, and I agree to notify my therapist to any changes in my contact information, including my address and phone number.
- My therapist will triage appropriateness for telehealth service delivery during the phone consultation, the initial session, and on an ongoing basis throughout the course of my care.
- My therapist and I will discuss safety planning steps, medical / mental health crisis procedures, and I will designate an emergency contact to be kept on file.
- A welfare check and / or risk of harm assessment will be intiated in the following instances: Imminent risk of harm to self or others, if a client presents to a session and it is suspected they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or when significant disorientation or deterioration is present, regardless of the cause. **The client is responsible for cooperating with any recommended assessments to determine if a higher level of care is needed. If an individual is unwilling to engage in this process, they will no longer be able to be served through telehealth and will be referred to a higher level of care.**
Telehealth Guidelines
- I must be physically present in Texas and I agree to provide the address at the time of the session.
- If I attend the session from a vehicle, I must be parked for the duration of the session. In addition to my approximate address, my therapist will also ask for the make / model of the vehicle and the license plate number.
- All sessions must be done from a private place (no one else in the room, appropriate childcare arranged) and a password protected wifi is recommended.
- While there is no specific dress code, I understand that I must be fully clothed, or the session will be disconnected immediately and will need to be rescheduled.
- No part of sessions may be recorded or photographed.
- I understand that telehealth counseling is performed over a secure communication system and that my therapist takes precautions to ensure hipaa compliance. However, there is no way to 100% guarantee that internet-based services or communication will remain secure, despite all precautions taken by the therapist.
- I agree that the therapist and practice will not be held responsible if any outside party gains access to my personal information by bypassing the security measures of the communication system.
- I understand there are potential risks to this technology, including interruptions, unauthorized access, and technical difficulties.
- I understand that I or my therapist may discontinue the telehealth counseling sessions at any time if it is felt that the video technology is not adequate for the presenting concerns or treatment goals.