Online Counseling
Many of us have made huge life changes in the last few weeks in order to follow the guidelines for COVID-19 and keep our communities safe and healthy. I wanted to share with you a little about our temporary change from in person counseling sessions to online video sessions.
How it works
I am using an online HIPAA compliant Telehealth option, Telehealth by SimplePractice.
Once you have an appointment scheduled . You will receive a reminder email with a link to your session at the time it is scheduled and then again the morning of or just before your appointment is scheduled to begin.
*Download Telehealth by SimplePractice app, free in the app store for iPads and iPhones.
Click on link for the video session when our session is scheduled to start, or open it through the Telehealth by SimplePractice app.
If on app you will cut and paste the link from email into app.
You can use the camera and audio on your computer or mobile device.
Privacy
For privacy in your home: sound machine or a fan just inside or outside the door of the room you are in will help create a noise barrier.
Headphones will increase privacy and ease in hearing each other during session.
Some are finding it easier to have privacy in their car parked at home or nearby their home.
Which device to use
Using a laptop and iPads work best because the screens are larger. Also calls coming in on phones pause session. Session resumes immediately after call. If the phone is your best option we can be flexible, no problem. If possible on devices turn off alerts during session for fewer distractions.
Close other browsers on laptop or phone for optimal streaming and connect directly to internet if possible versus using wifi.
Home set up
Set your device on something firm, about eye level across from you. Find a comfortable place to sit.
Set device about arms length (double that for couples) across from you. For couples make sure you are both in frame.
Try to have more of yourself in screen and less of ceiling. (This supports being able to track body language and progress of session.)
If you are in a room with a window, have window in front of you or to your side not behind you. Light from behind obstructs view.
What happens after COVID-19 guidelines are lifted?
Once stay home orders are lifted you are welcome to continue online video sessions if this is more convent for you, you can switch to in person sessions, or do a mix of both. We can discuss together at that time.
Counseling Katy Texas Image by: azgovernor.gov
Wishing you and your families a safe and healthy day!
Michelle Puster M.Ed., LPC
Katy Couples & Wellness Counseling
Helping moms replenish and restore