Telehealth Consent
Information about receiving therapy services via secure video conferencing
Telehealth Consent
Mary DiOrio, LCSW, LLC
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth involves the use of electronic communications to enable healthcare providers to deliver services remotely. For psychotherapy, this typically means conducting therapy sessions via secure video conferencing technology.
I offer telehealth services to clients located in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Oregon. These services are provided through a HIPAA-compliant video platform that ensures the privacy and security of our sessions.
Benefits of Telehealth
Telehealth therapy offers several potential benefits:
- Access therapy from the comfort of your own home or private space
- Eliminate commute time and associated stress
- Greater scheduling flexibility
- Continuity of care when traveling or relocating within licensed states
- Reduced exposure to illness in waiting rooms
- Accessibility for those with mobility limitations
Many clients find telehealth sessions to be just as effective as in-person therapy, and some prefer the convenience and comfort it provides.
Technology Requirements
To participate in telehealth sessions, you will need:
Reliable Internet Connection
A stable broadband connection is essential for clear video and audio. WiFi or wired ethernet both work well.
Compatible Device
A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone. Laptops and desktop computers generally provide the best experience.
Private Space
A quiet, private location where you can speak openly without being overheard. This is essential for maintaining confidentiality.
Secure Video Platform
You will receive a link to join our secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. No software download is typically required.
I recommend testing your technology before our first telehealth session. If you experience technical difficulties, please contact me and we can troubleshoot together or reschedule if needed.
Privacy & Security
Your privacy is paramount. I take the following measures to protect the confidentiality of our telehealth sessions:
- All sessions are conducted through HIPAA-compliant video conferencing software
- Video sessions are encrypted end-to-end
- I conduct sessions from a private, secure location
- Session recordings are never made without explicit written consent
- Your login information and session links are sent through secure channels
Your Responsibility
You are responsible for ensuring your own environment is private and secure during sessions. Please use a private space where others cannot overhear, and avoid using public WiFi networks when possible.
Limitations & Risks
While telehealth is effective for many clients, there are some limitations and risks to be aware of:
Technical Difficulties
Internet connectivity issues, software glitches, or hardware problems may disrupt sessions. If this occurs, I will attempt to reconnect or contact you by phone to complete or reschedule the session.
Not Suitable for All Situations
Telehealth may not be appropriate for clients experiencing acute crisis, active suicidal ideation, severe mental health conditions requiring a higher level of care, or those without access to a private space.
Limitations of Technology
Some non-verbal cues may be harder to observe via video. I will do my best to maintain the quality of our therapeutic relationship despite this limitation.
We will regularly evaluate whether telehealth continues to meet your needs, and I may recommend in-person sessions or other resources if clinically appropriate.
Emergency Procedures
Telehealth requires additional safety planning since I cannot be physically present with you. Before beginning telehealth services:
You agree to provide:
- Your physical location at the start of each session (address where you are located)
- An emergency contact who can be reached if I have concerns about your safety
- Contact information for your local emergency services (if different from 911)
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988).
Telehealth is not appropriate for psychiatric emergencies. If you are in crisis, please seek immediate help through emergency services.
State Licensing & Location Requirements
I am licensed to provide psychotherapy services in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Oregon. Due to state licensing laws:
- You must be physically located in one of these states during our telehealth sessions
- If you travel outside these states, we cannot conduct sessions until you return
- You will confirm your location at the start of each session
Practice Locations
New York Office
3 Columbus Circle, Suite 15/f
New York, NY 10019
Portland Office
1220 SW Morrison, Suite 905
Portland, OR 97205
Your Consent
By participating in telehealth services, you acknowledge that:
- You have read and understand this Telehealth Consent information
- You understand the benefits, limitations, and risks of telehealth
- You agree to the technology and privacy requirements outlined above
- You will provide your physical location at the start of each session
- You understand that telehealth is voluntary and you may request in-person sessions
- You may withdraw consent for telehealth at any time
If you have any questions about telehealth or prefer to meet in person, please let me know. Your comfort and the effectiveness of our work together is my priority.