Pros/Cons of Virtual Counseling

Did you know that the first recorded use of "Telehealth" happened in 1906? Telehealth has been a growing medium to accessing medical treatment for decades.  A benefit  of Virtual Counseling is that it removes barriers to treatment for broader access to care.  Some research has suggested that online counseling is as, and sometimes more, effective than face to face counseling; however, online counseling does come with some limits in how we can assess your mental status and appearance.  Being aware of the pros and cons of online counseling is important so that you can make an informed decision in your choice of therapist.

Electronic communication, including Email and Text, are for scheduling and basic information purposes only.  At no time should sensitive information be discussed in email or text. 

 If you are experiencing a crisis you should call your nearest Crisis Response Team (988), (911), or proceed to your nearest Emergency Room for evaluation and support.  

Email is monitored only once per day.   At no time will a clinician accept a "friend request", "follow request", or participate  in any form of Social Media engagement with client's or client's friends or family

This policy is intended to protect your privacy and maintain expected ethical standards of practice.

Every effort is made to protect your information with the use of HIPPA compliant videoconferencing technology.  It is impossible to absolutely guarantee that there will never be a breach of data.  Eight Winds works with HIPPA compliant professional platforms and billing service providers but any use of email, text, wifi or the internet carries inherent risk and clients should make an informed decision to engage in remote counseling understanding that risk.

Social Media presence by Eight Winds Wellness is intended for sharing awareness and positive community engagement.  Counselor will not engage socially within the Eight Winds Social Media presence.  This policy is because we value your privacy and ethical standards of practice for mental health treatment. 

Your sessions are private and protected healthcare information.   That said, Therapists are Mandated Reporters under the law, that means there are certain criteria under which your counselor is legally required to report concerns to authorities:

 * Threats of harm to self or others - if your counselor has reasonable belief that there is an imminent risk to safety then confidentiality must be broken and a report made for safety

* Suspicion of the abuse or neglect of a child or elder.  If your counselor has reasonable concern that a child or elder is in danger of harm then confidentiality must be broken

* Inability to care for self - if a person's mental state is of such disorder that their actions could result in serious injury, debilitation, or death to themself or another then confidentiality must be broken .

We welcome your questions about any of these issues and will be happy to clarify if you have any concerns.  Please don't hesitate to reach out through our Contact below.