Since the COVID pandemic in 2020, I have been offering virtual telehealth appointments via video or phone call through a HIPAA compliant portal. While the vast majority of insurance companies are covering these sessions at the same level as in-person behavioral health appointments, please call member services on the back of your insurance card to verify your coverage if you are uncertain. Below are some recommendations for optimizing your experience with telehealth:
There are some advantages of online sessions; for example, there’s no travel time and they can happen in the comfort of your own home or office. Online sessions are much like in person sessions and you can feel and experience about the same benefits when following these recommendations.
- Select a room in your home or office where you can sit comfortably, be alone, have privacy, and it’s not too noisy.
- Once you have selected a room for your online session, please prepare your device. You can use a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. You can use anything that has a camera and microphone and can connect to the internet. Make sure your device is charged or is plugged in.
- I strongly recommend setting up your device across from you on a tripod or table so that you don’t have to hold the device with your hand for the duration of the session.
- Test your device and camera. Make sure that I will be able to see your whole face, shoulders, and upper body. This is important for me to be able to assess your body language, position, and any changes in movement or behavior that allow me to have all the information I need to help you during your session.
- Dress appropriately as though you were attending an in-person session. It can be helpful to maintain these boundaries and a sense of normalcy despite these unprecedented times.
- Double check to make there’s nothing in your background that your camera picks up that you would not want me to see over video chat. Some people feel more vulnerable in telehealth sessions because it can be like inviting the therapist into your home. Checking your environment before attending a virtual session ensures your ability to maintain some privacy and personal boundaries.
- Once you test your device and camera, feel free to cover the “selfie” part so that you can only see me when we are connected. This can help prevent distraction by your own image during your session (we all do it!).
- Your online session will be 55 minutes, please be on time and ready a couple minutes before your session.
- Silence or mute your phone to avoid interruptions.
- Use earphones or headphones with a microphone for better sound.
To connect, please follow this confidential and secure link, write your first name so I know that you are waiting to begin your session. Allow access to camera and microphone.
https://doxy.me/stephaniesealslcsw
Sometimes technology fails. Please keep your phone nearby as an additional/back up way to connect for the session.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call, email, or text me at any time.
Stephanie Seals
773-340-9364