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Are You Uneasy with Skype Sessions for Counseling Or Therapy?

Some therapists seem to be inviting their clients to join them online using consumer grade video platforms such as Skype, Google Talk, and a host of other free platforms. Rather than using videoconferencing equipment that meets federal regulations for both protecting your privacy and security (HIPAA), some therapists are choosing to use free platforms up on the open Internet. These therapists may...

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Mistreated by An Online Therapist or Doctor? Your 3 Best Solutions

Working online with a professional has many benefits, but when it comes to reporting a professional for unprofessional behavior, your options are limited if you didn't do your homework first. That homework involves verifying the credentials of the professional you have chosen and knowing ahead of time where to go if a problem arises. Solution#1: How to File a Licensing Complaint Consumer...

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Online Therapy Anyone?

Today I'm starting a new series of blog posts about online therapy. You can look forward to seeing me discuss a number of issues that many therapists, counselors, patients & clients ask themselves: 1. Is it ok for me to ask my therapist to text me rather than call and leave messages? or have a Skype session with me online? or let me send them an email describing how I feel about a...

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Can My Therapist Work with Me Even When I Move to Another State or Country?

Using today's technology, yes, online counseling and online therapy are possible, legal and ethical. Here's how: 1. Your therapist needs to get secure technology. SKYPE is not yet secure, but if they pay a little money, they can get what's known as "HIPAA-compliant technology." If they have any questions about doing that, ask them to get the audio recording available at...

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Is Your Therapist Using Skype and Billing Your Insurance Illegally?

Many therapists are already using technology to extend their reach online, but aren't being honest with the insurance companies about the location of the services they bill. Telehealth services, that is, online therapy, online counseling, Internet therapy, etherapy, webtherapy, Skype therapy – all these terms mean the same thing, and they typically require a special...

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Failing Your Boss

Joanne responded to the concern of one SHM Community Forum member about how he failed his boss and is afraid of being fired. She wrote: I think telling him the plain truth is the best defense. The fact is you love this job and want to keep it and hope to God that he doesn't fire you. You made a mistake and get flustered around him. But you are willing to keep trying and hopes he keeps trying...

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