VIDEO COUNSELING

What is Video Counseling? Video counseling, online counseling, e-therapy, online therapy, teletherapy – all these terms describe therapy and counseling services that are provided online. Simply put, video counseling is when the counselor and client have sessions through video conferencing.

Through the use of a secure, HIPAA compliant service, Doxy.me, we are able to meet with clients via video conferencing for sessions. Doxy.me is as easy to use as "Skype" or "Facetime" but provides a higher level of security and privacy.

(For IPhone, IPad or Android Phone users, you will need to download the Doxy.me app)

Here's how it works:

If you are an established client, simply make an appointment just as you would for a regular session. If this is your first time, you will need to register as a new client and complete the necessary forms in order to set up an appointment for video counseling.
Pay for your session here. Video sessions must be paid prior to the start of the session unless other payment arrangements have been made with your insurance provider.
At the time of your appointment, simply click on the link below through Chrome or Firefox browser to enter the "virtual waiting room" https://doxy.me/merrysurvival2victory
It will ask you to type in your name.
Your counselor will initiate the call/session at the scheduled time

FAQs about Online Counseling:

Why video counseling?
Video counseling is an affordable and convenient treatment option that offers the same benefits as in-person counseling but from the comfort of your home. With your busy schedule and demands of daily life, video counseling increases access to behavioral health treatment.

Video counseling allows us to connect anywhere with secure and convenient appointments that save you time and hassle. There’s no need to deal with traffic when you can schedule and attend your appointments directly from a laptop or mobile device.

Through audio and video over the internet, you can meet with your counselor on-the-go from your desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device (iOS or Android) – it’s your choice!

We offer video sessions to make counseling more feasible for our clients. Research has shown that video/online counseling can be just as effective as face-to-face counseling.

What equipment do I need?
To participate in video counseling sessions from your home, you will need one of the following devices:

Desktop computer with a webcam, speakers OR
Laptop computer with built-in webcam and speakers OR
Tablet device with built-in webcam and speakers OR
Smartphone with at least iOS 10 or Android 6.0
(Note: To use a smartphone, you must first download doxy.me – available for iOS or Android from the Itunes Store or the Google Play Store, depending on your device. Or you can just simply use your PC or Mac to login to the website. Be sure to log in using Chrome or Firefox browser)
You will also need an internet connection that is at least 10mbps. For optimal results, a reliable, high-speed internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 mbps will minimize connection issues and provide the best quality.

Who is Video Counseling Suitable For?
Video counseling is suitable for those with mild to moderate behavioral health concerns. Contact me to set up your free consultation to determine if video counseling is right for you. Video counseling is NOT suitable for you:

If you are feeling suicidal or homicidal

If you have a history of self-injury
If you are in an abusive or violent relationship
If you are presently under the influence of alcohol or drugs
If you have psychotic symptoms

If you are experiencing an emergency, please visit your nearest emergency room, or call 911 or contact Crisis Services: Ridgeview Institute Access Center at 770-434-4567 or Peachford Hospital at 770-454-2302 or the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 800-714-4225

What Will Happen Prior to My First Appointment?
You will need to complete a standard intake and counseling consent form, which can be returned via our secure, HIPAA compliant internet fax service prior to your first appointment. You will be sent an invitation to download the video software, doxy.me. This program/app requires a simple download and installation on your computer and isfree to use. Please make sure the app/program is up-and-running prior to our initial appointment by checking audio and video settings. On the day of your session, you will receive a message a few minutes before the session starts to ensure that you’re ready to go. That’s all there is to it!

Is it Possible to Meet for Sessions In Person as well as Online?
Yes, we are flexible and work with our clients to determine what meeting format works best for them. Some clients prefer to meet face-to-face for the first session and then continue with online counseling for the remaining sessions. While other clients choose to meet face-to- face for most sessions and them meet online during times of being out of town, vacation, etc.

How Will I Pay for My Video Sessions?
All fees are due at the time of service. We accept debit cards and all major credit cards via PayPal.

Are Video Sessions Covered by My Insurance Provider?
Coverage will depend on your individual plan. Some insurance companies will cover video/online counseling. It is your responsibility to contact your insurance provider to ensure this service is covered by your plan. If the session is covered by your insurance, you are still responsible for the co payment which is due prior to the start of the session.

Will the appointments be recorded?
No, video counseling sessions are never recorded.

Can I get an evaluation using video counseling?
The purpose of most evaluations is to determine the nature of a problem which involves developing a diagnosis. Face-to-face time with your counselor is an important component of this process. If you are experiencing symptoms or conditions that require in-person care, diagnosis, or assessment, video/online counseling is seldom the best means of obtaining an accurate diagnosis, although in some circumstance it may be appropriate.