Telehealth FAQs

We are now able to offer telehealth (video-conferencing/phone) sessions through our Client Portal/TheraNest platforms.

Please sign the Telehealth Consent Form on your Client Portal before your first telehealth session.

Here are some frequently asked questions and tips:

How does it work?

·      When you schedule a telehealth session with your provider, you can login into the Client Portal to access your session.  Every session will have a unique link to enter.  

·      You do not need to download any new apps or software.

·      You can do video-conferencing from your computer or phone. Make sure you enable camera and microphone features.

·      If you are having trouble accessing the Client Portal, your provider can email you the unique link.  But it is easiest to use the Client Portal.

For more please see: https://help.theranest.com/en/articles/2129234-telehealth-faqs-for-clients

Do we really need to continue sessions right now?

·      We strongly recommend you continue your sessions as scheduled.

·      Continuing sessions will maintain progress made and prevent regression (which is more likely to happen during times of stress).

·      We can help you manage your stress and anxiety during this difficult time.

·      Telehealth offers some new options for treatment that cannot be done in-person (e.g. trouble-shooting issues at home, such as how to build your own calm space, use executive functioning skills to complete projects, etc.).

·      Sessions can be a scheduled activity that keeps you or your child busy while stuck at home.

Will telehealth sessions be effective?

·      Yes!  For adult and teen sessions that are talk-therapy based, your treatment will not change much at all. Plus, you can complete sessions from the comfort of your home!

·      For children who do play therapy, we are able to use tools and methods to continue using play therapy skills.  We recommend parents have certain materials on hand, such as tools for drawing, building materials, stress tools (Your provider can give you a list specific to your child. You do not need to have everything recommended).  Children will love this cool new way to interact with their therapist! Strategies can include:

o   Parenting sessions or parent-coaching sessions

o   Parent-Child sessions

o   Online game-play

o   Traditional play therapy tasks

o   And more!

Will my insurance cover this?

·      Most major insurance companies are now making announcements and broad changes to their policies to accommodate patients during this health crisis.

·      If you are unsure if your policy/plan includes telehealth benefits, call your insurance company to ask. Please note: things are changing every day, so even if you were told no yesterday, it may have changed.

·      If you have financial concerns, or would have to pay out-of-pocket please contact our Patient Assistant to discuss your options (224)723-5772 or reception@brighterpathways.net.  We will do whatever we can to accommodate you.

What about my privacy during sessions?

·      We recommend finding a private room with a door in your home to participate in sessions. 

·      Consider using earbuds, so no one else can hear your therapist. 

·      If you are concerned about family/roommates listening from the door, consider using a white noise machine/recording to mitigate that (there are white noise apps on many phones too).  Do your best to find a private space.

·      Your provider can also help you trouble-shoot any of these concerns.

·      We use a HIPAA compliant platform.  We recommend you use private, password-protected WiFi.

What if there are connection issues?

·      While this is not expected, if your session is dropped or experiencing connection issues, your provider will quickly work to reconnect or call you to complete the session by phone.

How do I access my Client Portal?

·      Most patients created their Client Portal accounts when completing intake paperwork and starting treatment.  Your username is the email you provided.

·      If you forgot your password, there is a Forgot Password link to assist you.

·      If you forgot your username, or which email you used, we can remind you.

·      If you are still having trouble, ask your provider or call our Patient Assistant (224)723-5772.