Teletherapy is a form of psychotherapy provided via internet technology, which can include conversations and/or education using interactive audio or video communication. Teletherapy has the same purpose or intention as psychotherapy or psychological treatment sessions that are conducted in person. Most health insurance plans are now paying for teletherapy the same as in-office visits and they have temporarily waived restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic.
Rights, Risks and Responsibilities:
1. I can withdraw my consent to use teletherapy at any time without affecting future care or therapy.
2. The laws that protect the confidentiality of my personal information also apply to teletherapy. I understand that any personally identifiable information or images from the teletherapy interaction shall not be released or disseminated without my written consent. However, I understand that there are mandatory exceptions to confidentiality which are described in the consent to treatment that I signed at the start of therapy.
3. I understand that while I may benefit from teletherapy, the results cannot be guaranteed or assured. Furthermore, as in face-to-face psychotherapy, my condition may not improve and in rare cases could get worse.
4. I accept that teletherapy does not provide emergency services. If I am experiencing an emergency situation, I understand that I can call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room for help. If I am having suicidal thoughts or plans to harm myself, I can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK for free 24-hour hotline support or the Vermont Crisis Text Line at 741741. Clients who are actively at risk of harm to self or others are not suitable for teletherapy services. If this is the case or becomes the case in the future, my therapist will recommend more appropriate services.
5. I understand that there is a risk of being overheard by anyone near me if I am not in a private location while participating in teletherapy. I am responsible for using the necessary electronic device and internet access for my teletherapy sessions, and for being in a private location with sufficient lighting and privacy free of distractions or intrusions. I understand that my treatment provider will do the same. I understand that participating in teletherapy includes the possibility that the session could be disrupted by unforeseen technical problems.
I have read, understand and agree to the information above: