Julie D. Bruno Psy.D.
Telepsychology
Telepsychology
My services also include the delivery of psychotherapy via the internet. People have come to know this form of therapy as e-Therapy, distance therapy, internet therapy, web therapy and Telepsych. This avenue of therapy can be a lifeline for those who have busy schedules, those who live in rural areas and those who find the cost of transportation a financial burden. In my practice, I use two platforms. I use an app called pMD to communicate via phone, text and video. You create a profile with your name and number. It works just like FaceTime on your phone. You click the app, find my name, text me and then after you text me you will see a phone or video icon in the top right-hand corner. You can use these functions to call me or video chat with me through the app. pMD is HIPAA compliant and free to download and use. I also utilize the video conferencing platform provided by psychology today, which is also HIPAA compliant. My virtual office page is juliedbrunopsyd. If we use this platform all you need to do is click on the link, you will be taken to my virtual waiting room. You will be asked to enter your name and then when I log on you will automatically be brought into the session. However, despite the security of these platforms here are some extra safety measures you can take to safeguard your privacy:
• Always log out of your account if you use a computer at work or at the library
• Use a personal computer if possible
• Make sure payment forms are secure
• Have passcodes for your devices that you change every 90 days
• Don’t leave your computer out and open to others
• Ensure you are in a sound proof environment when conducting your session and uses
earbuds or headphones
• Make sure you’re on a secure network that is password protected vs. public WiFi which is
susceptible to cyber criminals
It is important that potential e-Therapy clients understand that not all insurance carriers cover e-Therapy and that each state has it’s own laws that govern the practice of e-Therapy. However, all therapists that advertise as e-Therapists should be licensed to practice in the state where the client lives most of the year. I have provided Florida’s Code of Ethics for Psychologists for your information.