Question 1

What is Telehealth or Online Counseling?

Accepted Answer

Misti Luke, LCSW offers secure video appointments also know as Telehealth sessions or online counseling sessions to persons in Oklahoma. Telehealth or online counseling consists of using internet technology to support long-distance services between health care providers and their patients or clients.

Question 2

How does online counseling work?

Accepted Answer

In the simplest of terms, online counseling is similar to Facetime. A videoconferencing platform that you access through the existing Client Portal allows you to see your therapist from anywhere with an internet connection: your PC, laptop, phone browser, or other mobile devices.

Question 3

Is Telehealth/Online Counseling safe and secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Misti Luke, LCSW Private Practice, takes your data security seriously. We use the HIPAA compliant, secure Telehealth platform provided through our Electronic Health Record (EHR) practice management software system. This closed system encrypts and backs up all data multiple times a day. Software and hardware tools used adhere to security best practices. Additionally, the Telehealth platform does not allow sessions, video, or audio to be recorded.

Question 4

Will insurance cover Telehealth/Online Counseling?

Accepted Answer

Most likely yes.  Many insurance companies do provide coverage for Telehealth services.   Before scheduling, contact your insurance company to inquire if your insurance policy includes coverage for outpatinet telemental health services.  Don't forget to ask if you will be responsible for paying a co-pay, co-insurance or deductible amount.  **Call the office for assistance in verifying your coverage.

Question 5

Do I need to sign up for an account to do Telehealth?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  All new clients will be sent a link via email to create their Client Portal account.  In your private portal account, you can access your new client forms, consent form for Telehealth services, your invoice as well as a link to attend your appointment.

Question 6

Is the video conferencing account and tool free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the video conferencing tool is free to use for Telehealth sessions.

Question 7

What equipment do I need for Telehealth/Online Counseling?

Accepted Answer

You will need the following to participate in Telehealth/online sessions:​   1. A computer, tablet, or phone (no applications or software to download). 2. An external or built in webcam.  3. An external or built in microphone. 4. An internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 Mbps. An ethernet cable over WiFi when possible is recomended to ensure you receive the best possible connection through your internet provider.   Unsure if your internet speed is fast enough? Check your internet speed here. Note that it is extremely rare for a modern cell phone, tablet or computer to not have a built in webcam and microphone.

Question 8

Do you recommend specific browsers for Telehealth?

Accepted Answer

If you’re using a desktop or laptop, the following is recommended: Google Chrome  Mozilla Firefox  Safari  If you’re using a tablet or mobile phone, the following is recommended: Android - Google Chrome iOS 11 or newer (iPhone or iPad) - Safari

Question 9

How do I start my online counseling session in the portal?

Accepted Answer

From your computer (using Chrome): 
1. Log into your Client Portal.  2. Select Appointments, then upcoming.  3. The option to start the session is under Actions.  4. Select Start Session next to the appointment date and time.  5. Wait for your therapist to start the session.

Question 10

How do I see & hear my therapist during our session?

Accepted Answer

1. A box will pop up on your device asking your permission to allow TheraNest access to your camera and microphone.    2. You MUST allow this for your session to have both audio and video.   3. You are then asked to enter your first name.    4. Once the therapist starts your session, you then select the JOIN SESSION button that appears toward the bottom, under your image.

Misti Luke

private counseling practice

TELEHEALTH FAQ