• 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 the permission from the others person(s).
• We agree to use the video-conferencing platform selected for our virtual sessions, and
the clinician will explain how to use it.
• You need to use a webcam or smartphone during the session.
• It is important to be in a quiet, private space that is free of distractions (including cell
phone or other devices) during the session.
• 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 tele-appointment,
you must notify the clinician in advance by phone or email.
• We need a back-up 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 ER
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.
• You should confirm with your insurance company that the video sessions will be
reimbursed; if they are not reimbursed, you are responsible for full payment.
• As your clinician, I may determine that due to certain circumstances, telepsychology is
no longer appropriate and that we should resume our sessions in-person. Once the state
of emergency is discontinued, sessions will revert to in person sessions.
