Teletherapy Policies
Prior to engaging in teletherapy, you will need to sign the Teletherapy Informed Consent. You can find that form HERE.
You cannot begin teletherapy services without signing this document.
Services/Payment:
Teletherapy includes any services for the maintenance of treatment that does not occur in-person. Video sessions may be payable through insurance. We have communicated with our insurance contractors and most in-network insurance companies will pay for teletherapy. Please contact your insurance company directly to confirm that your plan covers teletherapy. Video sessions will be billed at the same rate as face-to-face sessions. If you typically owe a co-payment or deductible, the same rates will apply to video sessions. If you will be paying out of pocket for services, the same out-of-pocket/out-of-network rates will apply.
By participating in teletherapy services, you agree to be charged for services. Your clinician will send you an invoice for these services.
Late cancellation/no-show fees will continue to apply to teletherapy sessions. This does not apply to clients that are on Medicaid and Medicare plans. If you are scheduled for a session and you do not attend the entire duration of the scheduled appointment, you will still be charged for the full allotted time.
In the event of an emergency, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.
Video Procedures:
Video sessions will take place through a secure, HIPAA compliant platform. If you choose to use a platform that is not HIPAA compliant, your personal health information could potentially be compromised.
Your clinician will discuss with you ahead of time how to handle rescheduling if technological glitches occur.
After scheduling an appointment with your clinician, you will receive an email with a link to your video session.
Tips for Video Calls:
You cannot begin teletherapy services without signing this document.
Services/Payment:
Teletherapy includes any services for the maintenance of treatment that does not occur in-person. Video sessions may be payable through insurance. We have communicated with our insurance contractors and most in-network insurance companies will pay for teletherapy. Please contact your insurance company directly to confirm that your plan covers teletherapy. Video sessions will be billed at the same rate as face-to-face sessions. If you typically owe a co-payment or deductible, the same rates will apply to video sessions. If you will be paying out of pocket for services, the same out-of-pocket/out-of-network rates will apply.
By participating in teletherapy services, you agree to be charged for services. Your clinician will send you an invoice for these services.
Late cancellation/no-show fees will continue to apply to teletherapy sessions. This does not apply to clients that are on Medicaid and Medicare plans. If you are scheduled for a session and you do not attend the entire duration of the scheduled appointment, you will still be charged for the full allotted time.
In the event of an emergency, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.
Video Procedures:
Video sessions will take place through a secure, HIPAA compliant platform. If you choose to use a platform that is not HIPAA compliant, your personal health information could potentially be compromised.
Your clinician will discuss with you ahead of time how to handle rescheduling if technological glitches occur.
After scheduling an appointment with your clinician, you will receive an email with a link to your video session.
Tips for Video Calls:
- Minimum bandwidth connection of 384kb or higher (your phone should be sufficient)
- Minimum resolution of 640x360 at 30 frames per second (your phone should be sufficient)
- Operational web camera and microphone
- While your phone may meet most above requirements, you may benefit from using a larger screen such as a tablet or computer to get the most out of video sessions and be able to clearly see your therapist.
- Private location (please be mindful that other individuals in rooms near you may be able to hear your call. Use of headphones is recommended to maximize confidentiality).
- No other individuals present in the room unless previously approved by your therapist. If anyone is in the room that is not authorized by your therapist, your session will be terminated.
- Adequate lighting so you are visible to your therapist.
- Appropriate dress and environment (what you would wear to an in-office session and a location you feel comfortable having your therapist see)
- You will be asked for your physical location/address and emergency phone number to reach you at the beginning of each session. Please have this information ready. Public places are not appropriate for confidential therapy sessions. Sessions may not take place while you are driving.
- Exit out of any programs that use bandwidth and ensure that no one in your home is streaming video or gaming which may affect your internet connection.
- Set your phone/device on "do not disturb" to minimize distractions and notifications.
- Think about setting up your space with things that you would typically have available to you in your therapist's office: tissues, fidgets, water, comfortable seating, etc. This may also be an opportunity to have extra comforts available, like a pet or other comfort item(s).
- Please do not use substances before or during your sessions. If this occurs, your session will be terminated.
- In the event of service disruption, try to regain contact using the same medium. If that does not work, try to make contact through phone/text/email. Your therapist will also make every effort to regain contact.
