COVID-19 has caused a lot of uncertainty and anxiety for many of us as we navigate these new situations. During times like this, we may need support with our mental health more than ever. Therapy is still available to you and it’s important to know that steps are being taken to make sure that counseling feels both accessible and safe.

Telehealth

Telehealth is provided as part of the therapeutic services offered. If you are unfamiliar with telehealth (as many of use were prior to the pandemic), this method of providing services is convenient, easy, and safe. If you have an appointment using telehealth, a link will be sent to your email address to connect on a private, HIPAA-compliant platform where you can see and hear your counselor from the comfort and safety of your own space.

Do I need a computer for telehealth?

No, plenty of people use their cellphones and others have used tablets if they do not have a computer. The only requirement is that the device have a screen, camera, microphone, and that you can connect to the internet.

Can you just call me on the phone?

No, in order to provide telehealth services, I need to be able to see you. There are a few different reasons for this and they are largely due to safety and the quality of services provided. For HIPAA purposes, the session must be held privately and it’s helpful to me to visually confirm this. A large amount of communication is also non-verbal (body language, expression, etc.) and it’s necessary for me to be able to see that in order to best help you.

What do I have to do for telehealth?

Not a lot, honestly. You need to have a private space you can use for the session (anything from a certain room in your house to your car), a phone or computer, and maybe some headphones if you want them. I would also recommend if you can, connect to your Wi-Fi rather than using data, as it will likely provide a stronger connection and is less likely to result in overage fees.

In Office Visits

At this time, I am providing in person services from my office in the Roxborough neighborhood of Philadelphia. In order to provide this, there are precautions put in place for the health and safety of clients and their families. As there is more developing information, these policies may change in order to best ensure safety for all parties.

Who can receive in person services? Is there anyone who shouldn’t?

It’s recommended that you come into the office only if you are vaccinated, for your own safety. If you are immunocompromised or you are at higher risk of complications from the virus, it is recommended that you utilize telehealth services at this time. Likewise, if you are a healthcare worker who interacts with patients who have the virus or are exposed to the virus, telehealth services will be provided at this time.

What do I need to do if I come into the office?

Masks are necessary and must be worn throughout the appointment. If you do not have a mask one will be provided at the time of your appointment. If you have questions about masks, this office currently currently follows regulations put forth by the CDC which can be found here: Your Guide to Masks.

If you are experiencing any symptoms including, but not limited, coughing, shortness of breath, fever, headache, fatigue, body or muscle aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, or nausea: do not come into the office. Even if you are certain it is not COVID-19, it is better to be safe and not transmit any illness. Your appointment can be cancelled, rescheduled, or transitioned to a telehealth appointment.

What are you doing to make the office safe?

Safety is a priority while still seeking to provide quality care for people during this time. The office furniture is wiped down or sprayed down with antibacterial disinfectant between appointments. Hand sanitizer and antibacterial hand spray is available at all times for both clients and myself. If anyone is feeling unwell or believes they may have been exposed to COVID-19, appointments will be cancelled or transitioned to telehealth (this includes myself). I make a commitment to be safe and mindful about health and exposure and not to take risks that put clients or their loved ones in jeopardy, such as seeing appointments in person if I were to develop symptoms, or not following mask protocol, or not adhering to safe travel guidelines.

I will also follow recommendations and guidelines of healthcare personnel related to providing safe in person services. Should there be a recommendation that services are transitioned to telehealth for a brief period, this office will follow the mandate to do so for the safety of all.

If you have any further questions about how this office is handling COVID-19, you are welcome to contact me at the link below.