Session Interruptions: This is How To Avoid Them

There are many new areas to navigate as telehealth has become the new norm. A vital point in the Informed Consent for Telehetherapy is reviewing session interruptions so that you set appropriate expectations and protect your time.⁣
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What interruptions are you okay with? What interruptions are “unacceptable”?⁣
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1. First, note that the client is responsible for ensuring a proper connection , a disruption-free environment, and a properly charged device for the entirety of session
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2. Review acceptable session interruptions and provide examples (e.g., emergencies, caring for children, teletherapy platform issues)⁣
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3. Review unacceptable session interruptions (e.g., disruptive background noise/distraction 🎶, taking another call, client’s device losing power, or client choosing to pause or end session)⁣
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Of course, it is up to you what you consider acceptable vs. unacceptable session interruptions .
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If you include these key points in your Intake packet, your client is aware ahead of time that if session is cut short due to an avoidable interruption on their end, they are still responsible for the cost of session. This also aids in holding clients accountable for being appropriately prepared for session.