- What is telehealth?
Telehealth is a process by which I can meet with my clients virtually (over the internet or cellular data) using technology that allows us to see and hear each other even though we are not in the same room together for sessions.
- What platform for telehealth does Dr. Fellman use?
I use a telehealth platform called “VSee Messenger,” which is a HIPAA-compliant platform.
- How do I begin to use VSee to connect with Dr. Fellman?
In order for you to join VSee, I need to email you an invitation link so that you can set up an account on the device(s) of your choosing. Any computer, tablet/iPad, or smartphone will be sufficient.
- What are some tips for having a good technological connection over VSee?
A strong Wi-Fi signal is very helpful for our connection to be smooth. Best of all would be if you can use an ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to your internet. If you use a smartphone, sometimes changing over to use data rather than Wi-Fi can improve a struggling signal. (A tablet or computer will allow for a larger picture and thus is preferable.)
- What should I know about privacy?
First, do know that I chose VSee because of the privacy and security provided, particularly because I have a “business associates agreement” with them—an agreement that tightens up the privacy even further. I also take precautions so that my sessions can’t be overheard, including my use of headphones. It is important that you also position yourself in a place where you feel you have adequate privacy, perhaps having your screen facing away from a door in case someone were to enter the room. Also, some people have even held their sessions from their car as this was the most private place available! (Please don’t drive during our sessions!)
- Is there any other information I should know about using telehealth?
Please be aware that I can only meet with you over telehealth if you are located in the state of Colorado, as I am not licensed to practice in other states. If you are located in another state, I would encourage you to find a provider near you.
- Are there any forms I need to complete associated with engaging in telehealth?
On my website, you can click on “Client Forms” on the menu of the “Getting Started” tab. You will see the various forms that you’ll need to read, sign, date, and return to me in order for us to meet. This includes (but is not limited to) the one called “Telepsychology Informed Consent.” This document will go into more of the finer details such as the risks and benefits of using this format for therapy, how use of insurance may be impacted because of using this format, etc.
By virtue of the fact that we are not meeting in the same room together when we use telehealth, I must be mindful of there being any possibility for an emergency that arises during one of our sessions. Because of this, I must ask you to complete an “Authorization for Release of Information” on which you designate someone who is local and can be contacted by me in case of emergency. No other information has to be released to that person if your wish is that they are only an emergency contact. This form can also be found under “Client Forms” on the menu of the “Getting Started” tab.
- Final tips:
Be sure to sit somewhere you find comfortable so as to allow you to focus on the session.
The fewer distractions you have during the session the better. You may wish to consider silencing devices and notifications.
Should you feel distracted by seeing your own (smaller) image, you could use a sticky-note to hide it from your view.
We will discuss in the first session what we’ll do should the video freeze.
You may want to give yourself a few minutes before and after the session to help yourself prepare for and transition out of the session. This is in contrast to immediately shifting from one task right into therapy and then back into another afterwards, which may have a jolting effect.