WHAT IS TELEHEALTH?
**We offer secure video appointments also know as Telehealth sessions to Texas residents. Telehealth is the use of video and audio technologies to support long-distance services between providers and their clients. Schedule an appointment with us today!

HOW DOES TELEHEALTH WORK?
We use a videoconferencing platform through our existing Client Portal, which allows you to see your therapist from anywhere with an internet connection:  your PC, laptop, phone browser, or other mobile device. 

IS THIS PRIVATE AND SECURE?
Yes, we take your data security seriously. We use the HIPAA compliant, secure Teleheath platform provided through our Electronic Health Record (EHR) practice management software system. This secure system encrypts and backs up all data multiple times a day.  We employ software and hardware tools that adhere to security best practices. All data is stored securely using Amazon Web Services. The Telehealth platform does not allow for sessions video or audio to be recorded. 

WILL INSURANCE COVER THIS?
Many insurance companies provide coverage for Telehealth services while others do not.  If you are unsure of your coverage, please contact your insurance company to inquire if your plan provides Telemental health benefits under your policy. It is important to ask if you owe a co-pay, co-insurance or a deductible amount. **We can also assist you in verifying your benefits! Just give our office a call. 

IS THIS FREE? WHAT IS THE COST?
Our videoconferencing tool is free to use for Telehealth sessions. If you are using insurance, the cost of the appointment is determined by your insurance company. 

HOW DO I PAY FOR MY THERAPY SESSION?
All of our current clients already have a debit/credit card stored on file with us. Our policy requires all new clients to provide a debit/credit prior to starting services. 

DO I NEED TO SIGN UP FOR AN ACCOUNT?
Yes. A Client Portal account will need to be created for all current clients who have not signed up for one.  All new clients will be sent a link via email to create their Client Portal account where they access their new client forms and consent form for Telehealth services. 

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
You’ll need the following to participate in Telehealth sessions:​
  • A computer, tablet, or phone (no applications or software to download).
  • An external or integrated webcam.
  • An external or integrated microphone.
  • An internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 Mbps. We recommend an Ethernet cable over WiFi when possible to ensure you receive the best possible connection through your internet provider. You can check your internet speed here.

DO YOU RECOMMEND SPECIFIC BROWSERS?
If you’re using a desktop or laptop, we recommend: **​Specific Browser Instructions

We recommend the following if you’re using a tablet or mobile phone:
  • Android - Google Chrome
  • iOS 11 or newer (iPhone or iPad) - Safari ​​

​HOW DO I START MY TELEHEALTH SESSION IN THE CLIENT PORTAL?

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From your computer (using Chrome):
​Make sure you are using your wi-fi connection.  After logging into your Client Portal, select Appointments, then Upcoming.  The option to start the session is under Actions.
Select Start Session next to the correct appointment date and time. 

HOW DO I SEE AND HEAR MY THERAPIST IN OUR TELEHEALTH SESSION?
Then a box will pop up on your device asking your permission to allow TheraNest access to the camera and microphone. You MUST allow this for the session to have both audio and video. You are then asked to enter your first name. Your therapist will start your session as soon as their previous session has ended. Once your therapist starts the session, you will select the Join Session button that appears at the bottom, under your image.
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Starting a session from Iphone

HOW CAN I IMPROVE THE VIDEO QUALITY?
  1. Restart your computer before your first call.
  2. WiFi: be close to your WiFi router, make sure no other parties on the network are using up the bandwidth (such as streaming videos during your session), and you don’t have a lot of browser windows open.
  3. If available, use a wired Internet connection rather than WiFi. 
  4. CPU/GPU usage: ensure no high-intensity programs are running in the background on your computer.

HOW DO I GET RID OF AN ECHO?
The following should be done by you and your therapist to maximize audio quality:
  1. Use headphones that have an integrated microphone (ex. iPhone headphones).
  2. Reduce the volume of external speakers.
  3. Move the microphone away from the external speakers.
Friendswood Counseling Center
3526 E FM 528 Rd, Ste 207
Phone:  (281) 819-7004
info@friendswoodcc.com