Recorded program with 3.0 CEs: Lisa Wenninger, Telehealth Law & Ethics, Technology, and Best Practices for Connecting with Your Clients

Providing therapy through Zoom or other online options is similar to working with a client in person – except when the technology glitches out, or the client is in crisis. Are you prepared for these situations? This course offers specific guidance on the legal requirements and practical considerations for providing therapy by telehealth in California, including informed consent, assessing appropriateness for telehealth, telehealth across state lines, HIPAA and confidentiality, and documentation. You’ll learn about important safety plans that should be prepared for each client, along with suggestions for implementing a simple technology failure protocol. The focus will be on best practices for two-way video therapy conducted on Zoom or other platforms, though all telehealth modalities will be discussed. EDUCATIONAL GOALS This course covers the California laws for delivery of telehealth by LMFTs, LPCCs, LCSWs, and LEPs (and their respective trainees and associates), along with ethical requirements established by professional associations including CAMFT, ACA, etc., and a focus on client safety and unique considerations for clinical care via telehealth. LEARNING OBJECTIVES 1. Assess a prospective client for suitability for therapy via telehealth. 2. Identify 3 requirements for documenting telehealth sessions with clients. 3. Name 3 components of a client telehealth safety plan. 4. Explain when telehealth is permitted across state lines. 5. Describe 2 ways that telehealth may increase equity in mental health and support social justice. 6. Apply an ethical decision-making model to common scenarios that uniquely arise in the provision of telehealth. This program meets the one-time 3-CE Telehealth requirement with the California BBS. It also counts towards the 36-CE requirement for every renewal cycle, and it qualifies as 3 CEs towards the 6-CE Law & Ethics requirement, as the entire training is comprised of L&E content.