Certificate Program Coursework (31 CMEs)

• Overview of Successful Telepractice Models

  Two hour-long interviews of mental health professionals who have years of successful telehealth practice: While significantly different in application, both these models embody classic, evidence-based approaches to working with clients who live hundreds of miles away from their practitioners. Specific descriptions are given of client recruitment, screening & assessment, intake procedures, routine care, working with children and older populations, community involvement and emergency planning both in the informed consent process as well as in actual suicide threats. Be informed on how telehealth can be practiced safely, effectively — and with successful reimbursement by both telephone and video platforms.

  3 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• Overview of Online Counseling, Psychotherapy & Telemental Health

  This course is intended to give you a quick overview and answer your basic questions related to both online therapy and telemental health. The most significant training competencies are covered briefly: competency, licensing, informed consent, security and privacy ala HIPAA and HiTECH Act, state law, client/patient education, documentation, mandated reporting, and reimbursement.

  You will be given access to the audio recording, which is a rich sampling of pages extracted from our other coursework. As a composite, this experience will introduce you to our multi-modal learning environment and more importantly, give you an idea of the main legal and ethical issues involved with establishing an online or otherwise remote practice.

  3 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• Legal/Ethical Issues I Rules, Regs & Risk Management

  This course begins as an in depth review of what’s happening with both mental health care and coaching online.

  Relevant rules, regulations and risk management strategies are then reviewed to develop solutions for common problems and dilemmas that can be worrisome to both licensed and unlicensed practitioners online.

  Licensing requirements are examined from multiple perspectives.

  6 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• Introduction to Telemental Health Theory and Practice

  This course introduces you to the 50 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.

  6 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• Legal/Ethical Issues II Best Practices & Informed Consent

  Best practice guidelines are reviewed from a number of different associations and perspectives to help you understand their practical implementation in working online with coaching and mental health clients.

  Settings, patient education, verbal agreements, dealing with family members, authentication, practice management, record keeping, HIPAA compliance, emergency backup and other fundamental issues will be covered, helping you to equip yourself to start practicing.

  This course then, involves a detailed review of various “Best Practices” documents (or similar papers) issued for telehealth, telemedicine, telemental health, telepsychology and online counseling.

  After a more extensive discussion of informed consent and its specific language, you will also receive an annotated “informed consent” document that you can bring to your own legal counsel for review. This invaluable tool is a unique feature of the TeleMental Health Institute and we are proud to help you get started quickly by making it available to you.

  6 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• Introduction to the Psychotechnologies

  This 1-credit course provides an overview on how to use the “psychotechnologies” to engage with clients and patients clinically across distance. Psychotechnologies are defined as the variety of technologies that are used in mental health and coaching.

  Every practitioner routinely uses the telephone, although not necessarily for direct treatment. However, some practitioners are already using smartphones and texting their clients. Similarly, most clinicians are already using email, and some are using it with patients.

  It will not be long before every practitioner is taking broader advantage of expanded telephone technologies, video, email and other modalities.

  1 CME | Learning Objectives

• Audio & Video in Telepractice

  This course is designed to help participants to:

  • Estimate the current average cost of a videoconferencing “seat” from your home or office.
  • Estimate the current average cost of a HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing communication channel from your home or office to a rural hospital.
  • Estimate the average cost of high-resolution videoconferencing camera.
  • Name which is the most important for remote mental health care: the audio (telephone) or video channel.
  • Discuss the impact of broadband to the home.
  • Name two software types to consider for securing mobile phones when accepting text messages from clients.
  • Identify the primary psychotechnology consistently identified by traditional telemedicine leaders as being “HIPAA compliant.”
  • State two essential considerations that determine picture quality in video conferencing equipment.
  • Name two of the most highly respected video hardware companies in the United States who might supply grant writers for your equipment purchasing needs.
  • State the minimal transmission speed for HIPAA-complaint videoconferencing.
  • Describe the impact of lighting and sound equipment upon videoconferencing.
  • Outline the most essential components of a reliable videoconferencing setup.
  • Discuss the technical relevance of having PIP and well-considered professional clothing when conducting psychotherapy via videoconferencing.
  • Name 4 bodies of scientific literature commonly referencing telemental health information but typically unknown to most mental health practitioners.
  • Discuss the technical aspects of the American Telemedicine’s Guidelines for videoconferencing, published in 2009.
  • Identify the federally-funded US government organization offering for FREE guidance regarding equipment to obtain for telehealth.

  3 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• Advanced Clinical Telepractice Issues (w/ Handling Online Emergencies)

  The main thrust in this course is to solve the Paradox of Telepractice and address the “X-Factors” that technology-mediated care needs to overcome the potentially crippling effect of being conducted at a distance… indeed, to more than overcome the obvious disadvantages, to the point of often actually being preferred in a fair comparison with in-person work.

  Many professionals struggle with the concept that in some instances, telepractice is not only on par to in-person mental health, but may be superior. As technology advances, we can expect more and more development of tools to assist us do our work in more efficient, more comprehensive and more extensive ways.

  • Rather than just rolling with the clinical punches thrown by the “remoteness” or distance issue, how can we put our discoveries to use and throw our weight behind those X-Factors to benefit the health both of our clients and of our practice?
  • In which precise ways are technological approaches an enhancement rather than a limiting factor in mental health care?
  • Which are the new technologies that can be used to benefit a specific client population, either synchronously or asynchronously?
  • How can we perhaps devise new approaches to working with the populations with whom we have specialized?
  • How can telepractice intakes, informed consent and emergencies be handled best?
  • How does one handle emergencies legally, ethically and clinically?

  3 CMEs | Learning Objectives

• How to Implement the 2013 ATA & APA Telepractice Guidelines for Telemental Health / Telepsychology / Online Therapy

  The American Psychological Association AND the American Telemedicine Association have recently released specific guidelines for the practice of telemental health and online therapy.

  Participate in our 100% online mini-conference and benefit from our analyses and comparison of both guidelines. Get access to our easy 1-page checklist to help you stay organized with these guidelines for every client/patient.

  Join us for this 3-part Online Mini-Conference from the comfort of your desktop or mobile device. Meetings are available Live OR recorded (that means that if you join us after October 14, you won’t miss a single minute of content!) However you participate, you’ll walk away with specific “next steps” for developing a compliant, profitable and practical telepractice.

  You too, can reach larger groups of clients/patients who want your help. Manage your risk with this APA and ATA Telepractice Guidelines Mini-Conference.

  6-hour Mini-Conference | Learning Objectives

• Video Teleconferencing for the Pros

  A focused, advanced course of study will help you choose the right technology, anticipate problems that are likely to occur, educate your client/patient and understand how to address the myriad clinical problems that can arise if you are not yet comfortable with how technology can complicate the delicate work needed in mental health with a distant client/patient. Developing competence with both the technical and clinical issues involved with video teleconferencing will also help you meet your ethical requirements.

  Dr. Maheu will explain the limits and the problems you can expect, as well as possible solutions for you to consider in choosing hardware, software and other crucial set-up issues for your online office.

  6-hour Teleworkshop | Learning Objectives

Bonuses

• Recording: To Skype Or Not To Skype? Free And Low-Cost Alternatives

  Marlene Maheu, Ph.D. 1-Hour Training Webinar recording

  Are you familiar with the risks and benefits of using Skype? Do you worry about the fact that Skype is not HIPAA-compliant? Curious about affordable Skype alternatives and augmentations now available?

  As the field of telehealth grows, so do the expectations of consumers, insurers, professional associations, licensing boards and malpractice carriers. Join Dr. Marlene Maheu as she gives an update on the current risks and benefits of using Skype. Learn how to evaluate the range of different video platforms, and become more confident in your ability to protect yourself and your clients from unwarranted threats to privacy and confidentiality.

  Webinar attendees will receive answers to these questions:

  • What is Skype-based healthcare?
  • Why use video as a platform for mental health care? Is it effective?
  • What is Skype? Is it a video platform or a social networking platform?
  • Is Skype HIPAA compliant?
  • What are “audit trails” and why are they important?
  • What is Microsoft doing to improve Skype’s HIPAA compliance?
  • What implications do Microsoft’s recent actions have for mental health professionals using Skype now?
  • Does insurance reimburse for Skype-based therapy?
  • What are the names of the 50+ video companies who clearly claim to be HIPAA-compliant?
  • Which technology features do mental health professionals need to deliver effective care?
  • What else do healthcare professionals need to know to be compliant with HIPAA regulations today?
  • How does email fit into the picture?
  • What does it mean to have a company sign a “Business Associate” agreement with you?
  • How do you get a company to sign a “Business Associate” agreement?
  • How does video interface with Electronic Health Record (EHR)?
  • What is the price range for HIPAA-compliant video platforms?
• Recording: 12 Facts Your Licensing Board Probably Won’t Tell You About Practicing Over State Lines

  Marlene Maheu, Ph.D. 1-Hour Webinar

  Looking for the facts about licensure and practicing over state lines for medication management, online counseling or online therapy? Have you heard conflicting reports from different parties? Are you tired of getting a lack of easy-to-follow answers from your licensing board or professional association? Do you think an easy solution is to call yourself a “coach” and sidestep the whole problem?

  You’re not alone. Most professionals in communication with us at the Telehealth Institute have one or more misperceptions about licensure. Licensing boards are also in rapid flux, and many favorable legal changes have already begun.

  Many professionals haven’t waited to get the facts straight or are trying to get answers from professionals who haven’t bothered to learn much about telehealth. One this is very clear: it is essential that every online practitioner be fully informed and stay current. Losing one’s license is not a desirable outcome under any circumstances.

  We at the Telehealth Institue have spent years amassing this type of information, distilling it down to the essential facts, organizing it and conveniently delivering it to your desktop. This webinar will answer your most burning questions about whether you can practice over state lines and help bring you up to date with the latest U.S. information related to “licensure portability.”

  Dr. Marlene Maheu is recognized as one of the leading experts in U.S. licensure for telepractice. In this webinar, she will explain the issues faced by licensing boards. She will openly outline 12 rarely-discussed facts about licensure, and why such information isn’t more readily available. These 12 discussion points are relevant if you are a drug and alcohol counselor, EAP professional, social worker, counselor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, psychologist or psychiatrist or any other U.S. – based, licensed mental health practitioner (or educator).

  In this program, you will learn:

  • The 7 most alarming truths about most of our U.S. licensing boards
  • The essential functions of licensure and why they are relevant to the stable growth of our professions
  • What’s been stopping our regulators from creating federal licensure on par with driver’s licenses
  • How many states require an in-person assessment for approved practice, and where to get more information
  • Which states require payment for telehealth on par with in-person treatment — and how licensure is pivotal
  • Which states are leaders in the licensure portability movement (licensing over state lines)
  • Why calling yourself a “coach” to practice over state lines when you are licensed get you in more trouble than its worth
  • How malpractice coverage can automatically be nullified, despite your carrier’s claims that you are “covered” for online practice
  • The one essential question to ask your malpractice carrier about your coverage for telepractice
  • Where to register for help with obtaining licensure in multiple states
  • What you can do to help change licensing law more quickly and more favorably for telepractice
  • Four (4) ways to keep abreast of these developments for free

  The Telehealth Institute is the leading telemental health consulting and training group for technology-based practice.

• Recording: 7 Essential Telemental Health Informed Consent Strategies

  1-Hour Training Webinar

  Are you confused about the informed consent process for telemental health? Have the new telemental health and telepsychology guidelines left you feeling overwhelmed about how to proceed?

  Join Dr. Marlene Maheu as she gives an overview of informed consent for telemental health. Learn the 7 essential points to include for risk management.

  Learning Objectives:

  • Name at least 5 issues addressed by the various published telemental health guidelines that can be handled most easily and efficiently through an informed consent process
  • Describe at least 3 ways in which evidence-based traditional telehealth models differ from practicing online using Skype or other VoIP-based video or audio programs
  • Intelligently discuss which if any legal or ethical codes can be circumvented or otherwise avoided
  • Name at least 3 issues that need to be covered by the informed consent process for using any telehealth equipment in your practice
  • Name at least 1 source for finding out about one’s status as a “covered entity” under HIPAA and if covered, how to discuss this issue in the informed consent process
• Recording: Why Consider EHRs Now? An Electronic Health Record (EHR) Primer

  February Webinar Interview Guest: Lisette Wright, M.A., HITPro-CP 1-Hour Training Webinar

  Why might getting an EHR be a survival issue? What are the dangers of hoping you can get by without ever using an EHR? Are you tired of getting different stories from different people?

  Many mental health providers are beginning to realize that they can no longer operate in the dark ages. Telehealth is an innovative, exciting advancement in the delivery of health care services. Efficiency and comprehensive care delivery is being embraced in the field, and Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are a major cornerstone for this enhancement. Yet, many mental health providers do not have the knowledge they need, are confused, or are simply not aware of all the ins and outs of purchasing an EHR. This webinar will help you understand the basics of EHRs and how they will facilitate improved care for your clients.

  Lisette Wright, M.A., HITPro-CP has a background in clinical psychology and is currently working as a Senior Associate for OPENMINDS, which is a market research and management consulting firm, specializing in the mental health, addictions, social services, disability support, and related public health sectors of the health and human service field. She works full-time providing Executive Team consultation on technology initiatives and systems, including all aspects of EHR selections and implementations.

  Webinar attendees will receive answers to these questions:

  • Why should I get an EHR?
  • Why are EHRs a survival issue? What happens if I don’t get an EHR?
  • How are EHRs intimately tied to DSM/ICD codes for billing?
  • What are some of the other advantages/disadvantages of getting an EHR now?
  • What is “Meaningful Use”, and are behavioral health clinicians included?
  • I’m worried about security and privacy, especially cloud-based EHRs. How can I be certain patient information will be safe?
  • There are so many EHR’s out there. How do I choose?
  • What are names of some EHR companies to investigate?
  • Why are EHR vendors being acquired by other companies? What will happen if my vendor is bought by another company?
  • What is a checklist of EHR selection best practices?
• 30-Minute Tele-consult with TMHI Faculty
• Membership to Community Forum

Core Faculty

Marlene M. Maheu, Ph.D	Myron L. Pulier, MD	Joseph McMenamin, MD, JD