Tips for Offering Online Services

If you are a private practitioner (coach or therapist for example) and you want to add online options to your suite of services here are some tips for getting started.

• Be sure to educate yourself on the ethics, skills and nuances of online therapy or coaching.
• Read OTI’s Ethical Frameworks.
• Read the qualifications for becoming a Verified website.
• Consider online training about online therapy.
• Consider reading our book, Therapy Online: A Practical Guide.
• Read our articles and interviews about online therapy on our Media page.
• Visit the International Society for Mental Health Online (ISMHO) and Metanoia for more information and resources.
• Be sure your services are delivered either via landline phone or through encrypted platforms. Several are available. Search terms such as “encrypted email” or “encrypted chat” or “encrypted web conferencing.”  Hushmail is an example of a service that offers encrypted email, chat and securely hosted forms. Mention Online Therapy Institute for a discount on their paid products and services.
• If you want to join an e-clinic/directory service that offers these encrypted options already, consider a site such as Breakthrough.com.
• Review other online therapy and coaching sites. Check out www.deeannamerznagel.com to view informed consent and her Get Started page. 
• Join Online Therapy Institute’s Social Network at www.onlinetherapysocialnetwork.com
• Consider clinical or peer supervision.