For those already familiar with the process, here is a quick link to my video-conference call waiting room.
I provide treatment through online video-conference calls. In California, insurance plans are required to cover video-conference sessions in the same way that they cover regular, in-person sessions. Although telehealth allows for the possibility of providing treatment across state lines, I am only licensed to practice with clients who reside in California.
Telehealth versus in-person treatment. There is convincing empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of psychotherapy provided through telehealth. That said, some clients prefer meeting with psychotherapists in person, and some concerns are best addressed in person. As a psychologist offering telehealth services, I am not well positioned to offer urgent care or crisis management, or to treat people who are acutely suicidal, or at risk for violence, or actively struggling with mania or psychosis, or whose mental health concerns are incapacitating.
Steps for telehealth.
- I use a reliable, secure, HIPAA compliant platform offered by Doxy.me. Here is a brief “how to” video.
- In order for video-conferencing to work well, it’s important to have a direct internet connection or strong WiFi.
- Clients should use a quiet, private room and earbuds or a headset for the video-conference calls.
- Clients can use any computer, tablet, or smartphone equipped with a camera and microphone for the video-calls.
- Before participating in a video-conference call, clients might visit my Doxy.me waiting room in advance and click on the Pre-call test button; Doxy.me will then evaluate the set-up and connection and, if necessary, offer suggestions. Clients might also check these tips for improving the quality of video-conference calls.
- I will receive an alert when clients check into the waiting room, and will initiate the video-conference session at the appointment time.
- In the event of any technical issues with the video-conference call, clients should be prepared to use a regular telephone call as back-up.
Steve Sprinkle, PhD 