102 - Introduction to Theory and Practice
COT Intro 102
Credit Hour:
6
Course Description
This course introduces you to the 30 years of scientific research that have shaped online counseling and telemental health today. The discussion starts with definitions, a theoretical overview of the field as per findings in the scientific literature, and introduces ethical, legal and reimbursement strategies.
Course Objectives
Upon completing this course participants will be able to:
- Identify and understand definitions used in online counseling, telemental health as well as telemedicine and telehealth.
- Identify 3 factors present in the 5 leading and successful online counseling or telemental health treatment venues as described in the scientific literature.
- Name at least 3 primary legal concerns to be addressed with online practice.
- Name at least 3 primary ethical concerns to be addressed with online practice.
- Identify at least 1 type of federally funded reimbursement program available today and the technology required to receive such reimbursement.
- Discuss at least 1 possible future application for online counseling and psychotherapy or telemental health.
Topics
Introduction
Key Terminology & Definitions
Telehealth & Telemedicine
Telepsychiatry
Telepsychology
Telemental Health
Online Counseling
Online Psychotherapy
Technologies used for Mental Health
Benefits
Barriers
Functionalities of the Internet
Socal Media
Private Websites
Vendors such as Skype
Other Proprietary Systems
Cornerstone Ethical Issues
Competence
Multi-cultural, Multi-lingual Issues
Informed Consent
Verbal
Written
Cornerstone Legal Issues
HIPAA and Other Privacy/security Laws
Confidentiality
State licensure
International practice
The "reasonable person" argument
Standards of Care
Community Standards
Clinical or Treatment Standards
Practice Standards
Basic Clinical Issues
Assessment
Referrals
How Listeing is Different Online
How Answering Questions is Different Online
The Role of Anonimity
How to Set up Your Online Office
Verifying Identity
Orienting Your Patient to Time and Place
Reimbursement Issues
All readings are provided as part of your coursework at no added fee. When you register, please provide us with your most accessible email address, since you will be sent links to the most up-to-date readings via email. Readings will be made available to you after registering.
Prerequisite(s)
Not Applicable
Read the procedures for this course
