COVID-19 Information

**Updated 12/19/2022**

The threat of COVID-19 is ongoing throughout the United States. As a way to mitigate the risk of exposure to COVID-19, my practice continues to provide services via telecommunications technology. Use of telecommunications technology reduces the need for persons to come into close contact with each other or to be in areas where exposure to COVID-19 may occur. However, in some situations, teletherapy services may not be adequate, and we may agree that in-person services would be more appropriate.

If there is a resurgence of the pandemic or if other health concerns arise, however, I may require that we meet via telehealth. If you have concerns about meeting through telehealth, we will talk about it first and try to address any issues. You understand that, if I believe it is necessary, I may determine that we return to telehealth for everyone’s well-being. If you decide at any time that you would feel safer staying with, or returning to, telehealth services, I will respect that decision, as long as it is feasible and clinically appropriate.

In order for me to provide you with in-person services, the following protocols must be followed by patients/clients and providers:

You agree not to present for in-person services if you have a fever, shortness of breath, coughing, or any other symptoms associated with COVID-19 or if you have been exposed to another person who is showing signs of infection or has confirmed COVID-19 within the past two weeks. If you are well enough to still participate in therapy, we may opt to conduct a teletherapy session instead or simply choose to reschedule your appointment.
If you have traveled recently, I ask that all clients coming for in-person sessions please wear an appropriate mask/face covering that meets COVID-19 specific health guidelines. This mask should be covering both your nose and your mouth for optimum safety. While this practice may feel uncomfortable for the duration of the session, it is for everyone’s safety and well-being. If you do not have one, one will be provided to you.
If you are bringing a child or other dependent in for services, you agree to ensure that both you and your child/dependent follow all of these protocols.
If you or a resident of your home tests positive for the infection, you will immediately let me know and we will then resume treatment via telehealth.

My Commitment to Minimize Exposure

My practice has taken steps to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus within the office and I will be abiding by the following protocol:

If I have been in large crowds, traveled recently, or if requested by a client, I will also wear my own mask while in the office.
After each session, I will sanitize chairs and surfaces prior to the next appointment.
I have also purchased an air filtration system that will help with air flow while the door is closed during sessions.
Furniture in the office has been re-arranged to allow for more social distancing during sessions.

If You or I Are Sick

You understand that I am committed to keeping you, me, and all of our families safe from the spread of this virus. If you show up for an appointment and I believe that you have a fever or other symptoms, or believe you have been exposed, I will have to require you to leave the office immediately. We can follow up with services by telehealth as appropriate.

If I test positive for the coronavirus, I will notify you so that you can take appropriate precautions.

Your Confidentiality in the Case of Infection

If you have tested positive for the coronavirus, I may be required to notify local health authorities that you have been in the office. If I have to report this, I will only provide the minimum information necessary for their data collection and will not go into any details about the reason(s) for our visits.