Online Therapy faq

What is online therapy?

Also referred to as “telehealth,” online therapy uses audio and video over the internet, you can meet with me using Simple Practice. You can use Simple Practice on-the-go from your desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device (iOS or Android) - it's your choice!

Telehealth allows us to connect anywhere with secure and convenient appointments that save you time and hassle. There's no need to deal with traffic when you can schedule and attend your appointments directly from a laptop or mobile device.  

How do I log in to complete my forms?

The first time that you log in to the Client Portal, click the link found in the welcome email you received from me. Clicking the link will open a new tab in your browser where you’ll automatically get logged in. Tip: bookmark the client portal page to make it easier to login in the future!

What equipment do I need?

To participate in Telehealth appointments from your home, you will need one of the following devices: 

  • Desktop computer with a webcam

  • Laptop computer with built-in webcam and speakers

  • Tablet device with built-in webcam and speakers, OR 

  • Smartphone with at least iOS 11 or Android 7.0(Note: To use a smartphone, you must first download Telehealth by SimplePractice - available for iOS or Android in the app store.)

  • You will also need a reliable internet connection. For optimal results, a reliable, high-speed internet connection will minimize connection issues and provide the best quality.

I recommend using the SimplePractice Internet Connection Test to check your WiFi strength prior to the start of your first appointment. If your connection is anything less than Excellent, you'll see tips that may help to improve the quality of your call.

What do I do on the day of the call?

If you plan to use a desktop or laptop, there is nothing to download prior to your appointment. If you plan to use a mobile device, download “Telehealth” by SimplePractice (for iOS or Android) in the app store. 

Here are the steps to join:

  • Approximately 10 minutes before your appointment, you'll receive an email appointment reminder. 

    • Note: If you have already consented to receiving text and/or email reminders, you will continue to receive them for Telehealth appointments as well. For new clients, make sure you have provided your email and or mobile phone number so that I can enable email or text reminders.

  • Click the unique link embedded in the reminder. You may have to copy and paste the link into your web browser if clicking the link does not work. Your video call screen will now open in a new tab. 

  • If I have already joined the call, you will see my face on the screen. If I have not, you will see yourself.

  • You will also see the Welcome prompt. Click “Play test sound” to test the your camera and microphone settings.

  • When you are ready, click “Join Video Call.” This will take you straight into the video call.

Please note: There may be a slight delay for me to join the appointment if I am finishing with a previous appointment. Please be patient and I will join momentarily.

How should I prepare my space for a Telehealth appointment?

  • Identify a suitable room that is quiet, private, and free of distractions.

  • To keep background noise to a minimum, make sure to close any doors, shut windows, turn off the television, and keep loud pets in another room if possible. Consider warning your kids before your appointment, and hanging a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door to avoid interruptions. 

Is Telehealth private?

Just like a face-to-face appointment, your Telehealth visit will be private and confidential.

What if we have connection difficulties?

If we have difficulties connecting through Simple Practice, or connection difficulties during the session, I will send you a link for a Google Meet session, which also is private and HIPAA compliant.

What if we will be connecting to the session from different places?

Know that with couples therapy, it is more effective if you are able to be in the same room as your partner. Subtle cues are lost through video chat, and these subtleties are particularly important between partners to help repair your emotional connection. That being said, if you are unable to connect from the same location as your partner, we will be able to do therapy, but please tell me ahead of time! It may require that we use Google Meet rather than Simple Practice!

Information about telehealth and Simple Practice adapted from their FAQ’s.

Contact me

I know the therapy process can be anxiety provoking. Please let me know if you have additional questions.