Telehealth Services Offered and Information

◉ Due to the Coronavirus and the CDC recommendations regarding social distancing, vulnerable populations and when to self-quarantine, the laws have relaxed for mental health providers who want to offer telepsychological services. In addition, the majority of major insurance companies have allowed for this benefit.

◉ There are potential benefits and risks of video-conferencing (e.g., limits to patient confidentiality) that differ from in-person sessions.

◉ Confidentiality still applies for telepsychology services, and nobody will record the session without permission from the other person(s).

◉ We agree to use the video-conferencing platform selected for our virtual sessions, and Dr. Murray will explain how to use it. We are using Doxy, a platform where all data is encrypted, your sessions are anonymous and none of your information is stored. Doxy adheres to HIPAA, PIPEDA and GDPR data privacy requirements.

◉ You will need to use a webcam or smartphone during the session. Most laptops and tablets have an internal webcam and microphone, and you can purchase a webcam to place on your monitor if you use a PC at a reasonable price.

◉ It is important to use a secure internet connection rather than public/free Wi-Fi.

◉ It is important to be on time. If you need to cancel or change your telappointment, you must notify Dr. Murray in advance by phone or email.

◉ We need a backup plan (e.g., phone number where you can be reached) to restart the session or to reschedule it in the event of technical problems.

◉ We need a safety plan that includes at least one emergency contact and the closest emergency room to your location in the event of a crisis situation.

◉ If you are not an adult, we need the permission of your parent or legal guardian (and their contact information) for you to participate in telepsychology sessions.