Telehealth means having a consultation with a healthcare provider by phone or online video technology, such as Zoom. We prefer video conferencing where possible, as this allows you and your therapist to see one another’s non-verbal communication.

The Practice Management Software we use, Zanda, has an integrated Telehealth system. This technology uses end-to-end encryption and does not pass through any third-parties’ servers. It is secure and compliant with all health standards (including HIPAA) to ensure your privacy and confidentially are protected.

If your Telehealth session is via video conferencing, once your appointment has been booked, our support team will send you an email confirming your appointment details and a secure link for your session. You do not have to download any software to use the link to Power Diary. If a phone session has been booked in, your therapist will call your mobile phone from a private number at the time of your appointment.

You’ll need either a smartphone, tablet or computer with an internet connection, camera and microphone. Headphones can also help with audio quality. We encourage you to set up a safe space and we have included some tips below to help you do this. Please ensure your phone or computer is fully charged and has adequate internet speed.

Prior to your appointment, it can help if you:

1. Ensure you have the latest version of your web browser (Chrome, Microsoft Edge etc).

2. Clear out your cache/cookies/history prior to your session.

3. Close other programs and/or apps.

4. Check you have a strong and stable internet connection.

By this we mean, a private and confidential space where you can sit comfortably and be free from distractions – which is not always so easy to achieve!

If you are doing the session from home, try and find a private and quiet space, away from busy areas of the household if others are home so that you won’t be interrupted, and you can talk freely.

If you have any concerns about someone overhearing or walking in during a session, it might be a good idea to talk with your therapist about the use of a phrase or code word in case you need you need to end the session quickly.

If other household members are home and you don’t feel comfortable asking for space or confident in being able to have privacy, going for a walk can be a good option.

Doing the session from your car is another good option. It offers a soundproof space and the option to leave your home and settle yourself before the session starts. Some people like to drive to a quiet spot, like a park or near some water, rather than sitting in the garage or on the street outside your home.

Some other handy hints

• Try to reduce distractions and background noises. Headphones or earpieces may help.

• Check the lighting. Natural light is best. Try and avoid sitting in the dark.

• Be mindful of what is visible in your background.

• Have easy access to things you may need or bring comfort – like a cup of tea, water, tissues

• If you are using your mobile phone, turn off notifications and put your phone on do not disturb during the session.

• Try and commit to the same space for each session and establish a ritual around how you begin your therapy session. Think about how you might settle yourself prior to the session and how you use the time before we start - Do you think about the events of the week and how you wish to use the session, or do you enjoy the space and not think about much at all? Think about how you might use the time straight after the session has ended – do you jot down some notes for yourself or try and do an activity to settle yourself down?

If you have a referral from your GP or Psychiatrist through the Better Mental Initiative, you will be able to access the MBS Telehealth items and claim a Medicare rebate. The telehealth medicare items were made permanent by the Government on 13th December 2021.

Contact us on (02) 9555 2611 or email admin@myspacepp.com.au