Telehealth Sessions FAQ
What Is Telehealth?
Telehealth is a way for us to conduct a therapy session through audio and video over the internet. Our session can be conducted from your desktop, laptop, or mobile device! Sessions are conducted over an end-to-end encrypted platform.
Please note that during a telehealth session, the provider must be licensed to practice in the jurisdiction where the client is physically located during the time of service. I am currently licensed to practice in the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Texas. I am also registered as an out-of-state telehealth provider in Florida.
What Equipment Do I Need?
To participate in a telehealth session from your home, you will need:
- A fully charged desktop, laptop, or tablet with built-in webcam and audio.
- High speed internet (Internet with bandwidth of at least 10 mbps is recommended for the highest quality and to prevent connection issues). You can test your internet speed connection by running an internet speed test (click the blue button to ‘run test’).
- Earphones or headsets to ensure your privacy and to drown out any outside noise.
- A fully charged phone as a back-up in case of any technical difficulties and we need to switch to a phone call or another video platform.
Can I Use A Smartphone?
Most smartphones have built-in video and speakers; however, it is not the most ideal platform. The size of the phone screen may not allow for an immersive therapy experience.
The video platform I use in my practice requires a smartphone with at least iOS 11 or Android 7.0, and you must first download the free Telehealth by SimplePractice in the app store.
If you prefer using a smartphone and have an older phone, I am happy to discuss using an alternative secure video platform other than Telehealth by SimplePractice.
Is Telehealth Covered By Insurance?
It depends on the insurance company. Cigna currently covers telehealth sessions. If you are out-of-network, it is best to contact your insurance provider directly to verify whether they will reimburse for tele mental health therapy. It is important to note that most insurance companies do not cover therapy sessions conducted over telephone or text.
How Should I Prepare for My Telehealth Session?
- Find a space with good lighting, privacy, and minimal distractions
- Log in a few minutes before the start of the session to make sure your equipment is working fine. You can run a pre-call test here - https://tokbox.com/developer/tools/precall/
- Wait for me to connect you into my ‘virtual’ office to begin our session!