FAQs Regarding Telehealth and Online Counselling

FAQs Regarding Telehealth and Online Counselling

What is the Difference Between Online Counselling and Telehealth?

Both online counselling and telehealth use telecommunications (e.g. phone) and virtual technology (e.g. Skype, Zoom, etc.) to deliver health-related services, such as counselling therapy, outside of traditional settings. Due to the current situation with Covid-19, these technologies are needed more than ever! Whether you choose my online platform or prefer to talk to me on the phone, I provide the same excellent services clients would receive in an in-person counselling session with me.

How Does a Phone Counselling Session Work?

Having a phone session is easy! Once you’ve selected a time for your phone counselling session, you will receive an email or text message with the details of your appointment. You will receive an appointment reminder by text or email 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. When it is time for your session, I will call you on the number you provided. Some people choose this option because it’s easier for them to talk on the phone or perhaps they live in a rural area that doesn’t have a strong enough signal to do video conferencing.

How Does Online Counselling Work?

Online sessions are also pretty easy. After you have selected a time for your online counselling session, you will receive an email or text message with the details of your appointment and a link to my secure online platform. You will also receive an appointment reminder by text or email 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. When it is time for your session, you simply click on the link provided to you. If you login in before I do, just simply wait for me to arrive.

What Browsers and Devices are supported?

Online counselling sessions are best experienced on a computer or laptop using Chrome or Firefox. Right now Jane Telehealth and Zoom (Licensed and encrypted version used by healthcare workers) are available should you choose a video session. You will receive a link prior to your appointment. A few minutes before your session, simply click on the link, follow the prompts, and wait for me to connect. 

How Secure is Online Counselling?

The online counselling platform I use is compliant with Canadian privacy regulations. This means that video, audio, and chat communications cannot be recorded. Online sessions are also encrypted, no uninvited people can attend, and none of the data is stored anywhere at any time. Also, I work from a private space that has passed a sound test and to add another layer of privacy, I wear a headset so that I’m the only person who can hear your voice.

I Don’t Live Alone, How Can I Make my Space Private?

It can be tricky sometimes trying to find a quiet and private place at home when you have family members or roommates living at home with you. Here are a few things that other clients have done to create a quiet and private space:

  • Try shutting the door to the room you’re in and use white noise, like music or a fan to muffle the sound of your voice.
  • Some clients like to sit in their car during their session, however driving during a session is not recommended because your focus will be on your session and not the road.
  • You could also ask your family member(s), partner, or roommate to go for a walk or drive while you have your session.
  • To decrease how much of the conversation is heard by others, you could wear earphones as well.

How Do I Pay for an Online Counselling Session?

Currently, I accept payments through interact e-transfer deposits, and credit cards for Canadians who want online counselling. Once you book your online counselling session, you can add your credit card information to your patient profile. Many clients prefer the credit card option because it’s the easiest.

Will Insurance Companies Cover Online Counselling?

Due to current isolation restrictions caused by Covid-19, insurance companies are becoming more open to covering online counselling. Whether you choose online counselling or in-person counselling, it is best to contact your health insurance provider or employee benefit plan to see if they will cover your sessions. There are many insurance plans that are covered; however, the type of coverage varies depending on your plan. Please contact your provider before your first online counselling session to see if LCTs or CCCs are a part of your insurance plan and to verify how your plan compensates you for online counselling services. At the moment, I don’t offer direct billing but I will be happy to provide you with anything you need to submit for possible reimbursement.

How Much Does Online Counselling Cost?

Intake session costs $155 and sessions afterwards are $135 (tax included in prices). My office hours are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Please refer to my online calendar which is accessible on this website by clicking on “Client Portal” or “Request an Appointment” for availability times.

 

Contact Today