Telehealth Informed Consent

Telehealth means receiving therapy or related healthcare services through secure video, audio, electronic communication, or other technology when you and the therapist are not in the same physical location.

Telehealth sessions are typically scheduled in advance and conducted through a video platform or other practice-approved technology. You may be asked to confirm your identity, current physical location, emergency contact information, and a private phone number at the start of sessions.

You are responsible for choosing a private setting, using a secure device when possible, and taking reasonable steps to prevent others from overhearing or recording sessions without permission.

Telehealth can improve access, continuity, scheduling flexibility, and comfort. It may also involve limitations, including technology failures, reduced ability to observe nonverbal cues, privacy risks in your environment, or limits during emergencies or higher-risk clinical situations.

If telehealth is not clinically appropriate, legally permitted, or safe for your needs at a particular time, the therapist may recommend in-person care, emergency care, referral, or another support option.

If the connection is interrupted, you should attempt to reconnect. If reconnection is not possible, the therapist may call the phone number on file or follow the technical backup plan discussed during intake. If there is an emergency concern and contact cannot be restored, the therapist may use available location and emergency information to request support.

Services are provided only when the therapist is legally authorized to practice in the jurisdiction where you are physically located at the time of service. If you are outside an authorized jurisdiction, the therapist may be unable to provide therapy during that session and may discuss referrals or rescheduling options.

Electronic communication can involve privacy risks. Use practice-approved platforms for clinical communication when possible. Email, text, website forms, and voicemail may be useful for scheduling and administrative matters, but they may not be appropriate for highly sensitive clinical details or emergencies.

You may be asked to provide your current physical location and an emergency contact for telehealth sessions. This information helps the therapist respond if there is a safety concern.

By participating in telehealth, you acknowledge that you have had an opportunity to ask questions, understand the benefits and risks, agree to provide accurate location and emergency information, and understand that telehealth may not be appropriate in every situation. Formal consent may also be collected through intake paperwork.