1. Simon Nuttgens Associate Professor Athabasca University, Alberta

2. A practice of many names A practice of many platforms Static vs. active Synchronous vs. asynchronous Newer developments

3. Pros: Flexible Cost effective Suited to some client problems Cons Loss of visual cues Assessment limitations Managing crisis situations Security of online information Regulatory and jurisdictional concerns Technology failure

4. What percentage of online counsellors learned their craft in their graduate training? Is special training required for online counselling?

5. The ability to develop a working alliance using micro skills specific to the online environment The ability to manage crisis situations when working with clients who live far from the online counsellor’s practice Proficiency in online communication technology Knowledge of internet and email security systems Knowledge of ethical and legal issues germane to online counselling Knowledge of jurisdictional and regulatory issues pertinent to online counselling

6. Record retention Re-use by client Data security Unintended uses

7. Three ways in which client-counsellor confidentiality can be compromised: 1. Computer virus or hacker 2. Accidental disclosure 3. Client-initiated breach What to do? Educate clients Informed consent Encryption SSL

8. Please click “agree” Who am I communicating with, anyway? Photo with declaration “Trends of dishonesty” (Midkiff & Wyatt, 2008) Arrange for a face-to-face meeting Information required for consent to be informed: 1. What will occur should technology fail and the counselor and client are disconnected? Questions to consider include who initiates contact via what means and after what period of time has passed?

9. 2. Limitations to the security of online communication and what precautionary actions have been taken to decrease possible breaches of privacy or confidentiality. 3. Whether or not textual, auditory, or video content will be recorded, and if so how privacy and confidentiality will be maintained. 4. The limitations of online therapy to effectively address certain client problems with an emphasis on limitations that arise due to the absence of visual information. Even when using online video, visual cues may be more difficult to discern than when the client is present in the room.

10. 5. How emergency situations will be addressed, including danger to self or others, mandatory reporting laws, and the management of other crisis situations when counselling from a distance. 6. The cost of services, methods of payment, and how missed appointments will be handled. 7. An objective statement indicating that less is known about the efficacy of online counselling compared to well-researched traditional modes of delivery. 8. A means for the client to verify the counsellor’s credentials

11. Prior assessment Informed consent Emergency procedures Contact information Alternative services

12. Where does counselling occur? Counselling only your province of residence? Gain licensure in multiple jurisdictions? Knowing the laws and regulations of other lands…

13. simonn@athabascau.ca Ph. (250) 496-5143 or (866) 916-9653