Thank you for your interest in Pacific Neurobehavioral Clinic’s (PNBC) telehealth services. Prior to contacting us, we ask that you review the following information to make a preliminary determination about the clinical appropriateness of telehealth for your specific needs and concerns.
Telehealth (AKA telebehavioral health, telepsychology, telemedicine, teletherapy, online therapy) is the delivery of healthcare services using telecommunications technology. At PNBC, we utilize a HIPAA-compliant video-conferencing platform for patients to have online therapy services with our mental health providers. Telehealth can provide various benefits; however, it also may present setbacks for certain cases and individuals, which is why it is important to determine if telehealth services are appropriate for each potential recipient prior to the onset of services.
We at PNBC uphold ethical, clinical and legal practices, and implement these laws and guidelines when determining how each potential client can best be served. We also consider our appropriateness as a provider for each potential client that wants to have online therapy. We want to ensure that you receive the best and most clinically appropriate care, which is why we would like to inform all potential clients seeking services that individuals experiencing any of (but not limited to*) the following mental health symptoms or diagnoses, are not best served through telehealth services. The following mental health concerns may require a higher level of care, in-person services, access to local services, and/or wrap around services, all of which are difficult to provide through telehealth services:
- Active or recurrent suicidal or homicidal ideation or attempts.
- A history of experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or manic episodes.
- Active alcoholism or substance use or addiction, or with a history of recurrent relapses.
- Personality Disorders.
- Experiencing active abuse or living in active danger.
- Criminal offenses, such as, but not limited to, sexual offenses.
If you find that you fall into any of the above categories, or are unsure, it is best and most clinically appropriate that you seek local, in-person services within your community. We regret if we are unable to provide services; however, we want to always practice with the individual’s best interest in mind.
If you determine that none of the above mental health concerns apply to you, and would like to seek services with PNBC, we encourage you to contact us.
*Please note that this is not an extensive list, and this is only a preliminary guide for determining the appropriateness of telehealth services for potential clients. During the initial and ongoing contact with PNBC, we will continue to keep your best interest in mind by continuing to assess the appropriateness of telehealth services based on your mental health needs.
