Plan for handling appointments during COVID-19

Therapy Sessions - Week of March 16, 2020

I am both tired of and relieved to be receiving messages from many businesses about their response/plans to COVID-19.  And here I am doing the same.  I do hope this finds you healthy and safe, and that we all remain so.
 
And I am sending this message to let you know how I’ll be operating, and so we can be prepared to use video sessions, whether we are required to stop meeting in person for a while, or whether you would prefer to do so.  I will continue to evaluate on my end whether to continue to have in-person sessions, and will let you know as that changes.   
 
For this week, so far I am planning to be in the office in person.  I’m happy to open the doors when you arrive just before our session and when you leave, so you can avoid touching the door handle.  
 
If you would prefer video, please send me a message by email or text well ahead of time, so I’ll be prepared. 
 
If you are sick or not sure, or have been exposed, or are waiting for test results, or you’re caring for someone for whom that applies, please let me know.   And I’ll do the same.   We will not meet in person and instead will use video.   
 
For sessions, I use the app VSee, which is widely used in the medical community and allows me to be in compliance with HIPAA.   It takes a one-time registration using an email address of your choice, using this link to my account:   https://vsee.com/s/5dc33eda40454     
 
Then you’ll be able to download the app to your computer, mobile phone, or tablet (or more than one device using the same account). 
 
I’ve had specific training and have been providing telemental health via video for more than 3 years, and via phone for much longer.   With that, there are some considerations to help facilitate.
 
    Get the app downloaded and setup well before the first use
 
    Have a private space
 
    For the session, set aside the time when you’re not doing something else (such as driving)
 
    Use earbuds with a microphone to provide better sound than speakerphone, if you can
 
        Have my mobile # 512-658-2960 available in case you need to text or call due to technical issues 
 
    Just before a scheduled session, open the app and be sure you’re logged in, with camera and microphone on / not muted  
 
    Close other apps and turn off notifications to minimize interruptions
 
    I will initiate the video call at the start of the session time. 
 
Note that we can also do sessions by phone if you prefer that to video.  I’ve done so for many years, and some people prefer that when remote.  Just let me know if that’s the case.
 
And if you need additional support outside of our regular schedule, please ask. When I can, we can arrange a 15 minute or 30 minute video or phone call at other times.
 
Please send me a quick reply or text message 512-658-2960 to let me know that you’ve received this.  And let me know if you prefer to receive any future update to a different email address or by text.  
 
Take care.   See (or VSee) you soon.