Telehealth Guidelines

We are now able to offer appointments via video-conferencing or phone calls for clients unable to attend the practice in person.

While Telehealth enables greater access and convenience, there are a number of considerations to be taken into account to ensure that your treatment is conducted safely and effectively.

To manage this around treatment goals and preferences, we have developed the following guidelines in regard to scheduling and participating in Telehealth sessions.

Scheduling Telehealth sessions

• Not all psychologists at Mindview Psychology offer therapy via Telehealth. For psychologists who do not offer it, Telehealth may be approved only on a case-by-case basis in case of illness or emergency. 
• We require 24 hours notice if you wish to switch your appointment from an in-person session to a Telehealth appointment.
• Failure to provide 24 hours’ notice may result in your appointment being cancelled if you are unable to attend in person and a cancellation fee may apply in accordance with our cancellation policy.

Getting the most out of your Telehealth session

In a face-to-face therapy session at Mindview Psychology, a lot of consideration goes into optimising the treatment rooms in order to establish trust, stability and comfort.

With online therapy, the responsibility for creating an optimal therapy environment is shared between you and your therapist. For this reason, we do not encourage Telehealth to be used in situations where you are unable to find a calm and private place.

Below are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your Telehealth session: 

Preparing the Therapeutic Space

• Try to commit to the same place each session – you may have a particular room where you feel relaxed and/or a chair or couch you prefer to use
• If possible, use a laptop or desktop computer and ensure it is set up on a stable surface. If you need to use a mobile phone or tablet, turn off notifications and place the device on a stable surface
• Consider what is needed to be comfortable – have tissues, a glass of water or a cup of tea ready
• Consider internet connectivity. Does the space you have chosen for therapy allow for a strong internet connection? If you are not sure, you can perform a speed test
• Consider lighting. Make sure there is adequate light for your therapist to see your face and avoid setting up in a location where a window will be behind you as this may cast a strong shadow over your face.

Safety and Privacy

• If there is a chance another person could enter the space or room you are using, it would be beneficial to put a ‘do not disturb sign on the door or find another way to ensure you are not interrupted during the session
• Consider if you will be overheard by family members or housemates if you are conducting the session at home. 
• Avoid speaking in the car or in a public space. This may compromise the confidentiality of the session, and travelling (i.e. walking/driving) during your session may impact your internet connection.

Limit Distractions

• Limit all distractions in both your physical environment and your devices to ensure your full focus can remain on the session. This includes turning off the tv, setting your mobile phone to silent or ‘do not disturb’ and closing down windows/tabs or games on your computer/device that may distract you
• Avoid eating and/or drinking alcohol during the session
• Do not participate in the session if you are under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol.

Conduct and Respect

Please consider the therapist and respect the work you are committed to doing together. Examples of choices or behaviours that may impact the session could be:

• Appropriate attire (ie, dressed as you would for your in-person appointment)
• Your therapist may find it challenging if you decide to conduct the session while you are driving in the car or out in public.