Online Video Counseling
What You Should Know About Online Video Counseling
By Peggy L. Ferguson, Ph.D.
Telehealth or telemental health sessions offer a convenient and secure way to engage in counseling. You can eliminate the need for a commute, waiting room, and parking meters. Thanks to today's technology, online video counseling can provide a high-quality visual and auditory experience during your counseling sessions. While some individuals may initially feel self-conscious or nervous about using this platform, most quickly become comfortable and report no significant psychological or emotional barriers to this format. Telehealth platforms like "Doxy.me," "Sessions," and others adhere to HIPAA and industry standards, ensuring security and privacy. It's important to understand that telehealth is not for emergency use.
During telehealth sessions, it's crucial to replicate a therapeutic environment. Patients are responsible for ensuring they are in a private, secure, and safe location that guarantees the same level of privacy and confidentiality they expect in their counselor's office. Recording telemental health sessions is not allowed without prior express consent from both parties. Engaging in other activities, such as driving or other distracting activities, is prohibited during the telehealth session.
I provide services using "telehealth"/"telementalhealth" platforms, primarily Doxy.Me. The address is https://doxy.me/drpeggyferguson .
Limits to Online Video Counseling
"Telehealth" or online video counseling for emotional, psychological, and substance use challenges has limitations. "Telementalhealth" is not for crisis management. A higher level of care may be appropriate for people with acute care issues or more severe problems. Those in crisis or who may be experiencing suicidal, homicidal, or self-injurious behavior should instead seek emergency care by calling 911 or going to their local emergency room at the hospital.
What Devices Do You Need for Online Video Counseling?
For a smooth online counseling experience, ensure you have the following:
A laptop, desktop PC, or Mac (preferably three years old or newer)
Smartphone or iPad (newer devices work better.)
A reliable, modern internet connection (wired is recommended, but wireless can work.)
Use Chrome or Firefox as your internet browser. (Safari on iPhones/iPads are acceptable with the iOS update.)
A working webcam.
If you encounter difficulties accessing online counseling, contact Dr. Ferguson's office and work with Gladys for assistance. Note that video counseling platforms may request permission to use your camera and microphone; please grant permission.
When you arrive in my online waiting room you may be asked to agree to let Doxy.me use your microphone or camera. Be sure to agree to their requests.If you are using a smart phone, turn off your "Call Waiting" for the duration of our session. It may kick us off the session or otherwise interfere with the effectiveness of the platform and technology.