Teletherapy Consent Form
Teletherapy is a form of psychological service provided via internet technology, while the therapist and client(s) are in separate locations. Teletherapy has the same purpose or intention as psychotherapy or psychological treatment sessions that are conducted in person. However, due to the nature of the technology used, I understand that teletherapy may be experienced somewhat differently than face-to-face treatment sessions. I understand that I have the following rights with respect to teletherapy.
Client’s Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities:
1. I, the client, need to be a resident of Colorado.
2. I, the client, have the right to withhold or withdraw consent at any time without affecting my right to future care or treatment.
3. The laws that protect the confidentiality of my medical information also apply to teletherapy. As such, I understand that the information disclosed by me during the course of my therapy or consultation is generally confidential. However, there are both mandatory and permissive exceptions to confidentiality, which are described in the general Informed Consent and Disclosure Form I received at the start of my treatment with my therapist.
4. I understand that there are risks and consequences of participating in teletherapy, including, but not limited to, the possibility, despite best efforts to ensure high encryption and secure technology on the part of my psychologist, that: the transmission of my information could be disrupted or distorted by technical failures; the transmission of my information could be interrupted by unauthorized persons; and/or the electronic storage of my medical information could be accessed by unauthorized persons.
5. There is a risk that services could be disrupted or distorted by unforeseen technical problems. In this event, my provider will move to other teletherapy options including Facetime, Google Suite, or telephone call.
6. In addition, I understand that teletherapy based services and care may not be as complete as face-to-face services. I also understand that if my therapist believes I would be better served by another form of therapeutic services (e.g. face-to-face services) I will be referred to a professional who can provide such services in my area.
7. I understand that I may benefit from teletherapy, but that results cannot be guaranteed or assured. I understand that there are potential risks and benefits associated with any form of psychotherapy, and that despite my efforts and the efforts of my therapist, my condition may not improve, and in some cases may even get worse.
8. I accept that teletherapy does not provide emergency services. If I am experiencing an emergency situation, I understand that I can call 911 or proceed to the nearest hospital emergency room for help. If I am having suicidal thoughts or making plans to harm myself, I can call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.TALK (8255) for free 24 hour hotline support. Clients who are actively at risk of harm to self or others are not suitable for teletherapy services. If this is the case or becomes the case in future, my therapist will recommend more appropriate services.
9. I understand that there is a risk of being overheard by anyone near me if I am not in a private room while participating in teletherapy. I am responsible for (1) providing the necessary computer, telecommunications equipment and internet access for my teletherapy sessions, and (2) arranging a location with sufficient lighting and privacy that is free from distractions or intrusions for my teletherapy session. It is the responsibility of the psychological treatment provider to do the same on their end.
10. My therapist has given me the opportunity to ask questions in regard to this procedure. My questions have been answered and the risks, benefits and any practical alternatives have been discussed with me in a language in which I understand.