Telehealth, also known as telepsychology, telemental health, telebehavioral health, virtual visit, or telemedicine, is video conferencing for our appointments. It’s an excellent alternative to in-person visits and gained widespread popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can participate from anywhere, whether it’s at home or a different location in Washington state or Hawaii, where I’m licensed, or in a PSYPACT state (link to map).

Potential advantages include built-in social and physical distancing, eliminating the need to worry about time and travel to the appointment, and geographic accessibility.

 

However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Technical difficulties, such as audio or visual issues, privacy concerns outside the therapy office (like insulation between rooms or the presence of others), distractions (like pets or nearby people), and a different way of interacting (missing non-verbal cues) are also possible. Additionally, technical requirements, such as a suitable device with an adequate data plan or internet access, may apply.

 

My primary telehealth platform is powered by SimplePractice, a private-practice management program.

 

If you’re using a desktop or laptop, simply click on the link for our appointment in the email appointment reminder or the client/patient portal. No software download or installation is required.

 

For smartphone or tablet users, you’ll need to download the free app Telehealth by SimplePractice from the Apple Store or Google Play Store. Once you’ve installed the app, you can start the video appointment by clicking on the link in the email appointment reminder or the client/patient portal.

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For more information, please refer to the SimplePractice resources, including a web-based guide to telehealth, a PDF of the telehealth FAQs, and a demo video (see below).

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As a backup telehealth platform, I also use Google Meet. If you have any concerns or questions about telehealth, feel free to discuss them with me.

Want to do telehealth with me? Let’s connect! I’ve shared my current availability here.

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Resources

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Wiki Telepsychology Guide for Patients

Intro Video to Video Appointments through SimplePractice (below)

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