Out of an abundance of caution and to respect Governor Beshear's mandate, as of March 26th, 2020, face-to-face, in-person sessions were no longer available and secure, Telehealth videoconferencing was employed. As of June 15th, my office will re-open for in-person sessions with additional safety precautions in place. However, secure videoconference sessions will remain available indefinitely for clients who prefer to keep risk at a minimum or do not wish to wear masks during therapy.
What is required for Telehealth? Most insurance companies are honoring the Telehealth practices to support social distancing but you should contact your insurance company to verify coverage. If you are interested in continuing sessions via Telehealth, the requirements for clients:
Desktop computer with a webcam, speakers, a 2.5 GHz processor, and 4 GB of RAM OR
Laptop computer with built-in webcam and speakers, a 2.5 GHz processor, and 4 GB of RAM OR
Tablet device with built-in webcam and speakers, OR
Smartphone with at least iOS 10 or Android 7.0
(Note: To use a smartphone, you must first download Telehealth by SimplePractice - available for iOS or Android in the app store.)
You will also need an internet connection that is at least 10mbps. For optimal results, a reliable, high-speed internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 mbps will minimize connection issues and provide the best quality.
Insure your webcam, speakers, and microphone are enabled.
How does it work?
First, let me know prior to your session that wish to meet via Telehealth so that I can initiate the process.
You will need to complete the Telehealth consent form through the client portal. I will forward you a prompt for that form to be electronically sign through the portal.
If your tablet or computer meets the minimal requirements, than you do not need any additional app, software, or equipment. If you use your phone, you will need to download the Telehealth app by SimplePractice.
Prior to your session, you will receive an email reminder with a link to "Join Video Call" for your unique appointment. Click that link at the appointment time and I will either be waiting or join the call momentarily.
What about in-person sessions? What safety precautions are in place?
Social distancing: Only one one client will be permitted in the office at a time. Clients will text when they arrive and wait in their vehicles to enter the office to support social-distancing. Sessions will end 5 minutes early to allow allow for social-distancing and for the office to be disinfected between clients.
Hand-washing and hand-sanitizing: Clients are encouraged to wash hands or use hand sanitizer as the enter and exit the office.
Disinfecting: All common office surfaces (i.e. door knobs, sink handles, bathroom surfaces, table top surfaces) will be disinfected between clients.
Masks: Given the nature of therapy (talking for nearly an hour in a closed office with minimal ventilation) and for the safety of all both parties are required to wear masks, which could include medical masks, cloth masks, scarves, or face coverings of any kind.