πŸ” Confidentiality in Telehealth: How We Protect Your Privacy in Virtual Sessions

By Leonica Riley Erwin, LMSW I The Social Work Concierge, LLC
By Leonica Riley Erwin, LMSW | The Social Work Concierge, LLC

In today’s world, telehealth therapy and virtual clinical supervision offer convenience, flexibility, and expanded access to care. But many clients and social work supervisees understandably ask:

β€œIs my information still private when we’re meeting online?”

The answer is yes β€” with the right systems, awareness, and shared responsibility.

At The Social Work Concierge, LLC, protecting your confidentiality is not just a legal requirement β€” it’s a sacred trust. Here’s what we do (and what you can do too) to keep your virtual sessions safe, secure, and fully protected.


πŸ–₯️ What Is Telehealth?

Telehealth refers to the use of secure, internet-based platforms to provide therapy or clinical supervision remotely. It includes:

  • Video sessions
  • Phone sessions
  • Secure messaging or file sharing (when appropriate)

πŸ›‘οΈ How We Protect Your Confidentiality

βœ… 1. HIPAA-Compliant Platforms

We use secure, encrypted platforms like SimplePractice or Zoom for Healthcare, which meet HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) standards. These platforms:

  • Prevent unauthorized access
  • Encrypt all data shared during your session
  • Do not record sessions unless explicitly agreed upon
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

βœ… 2. Secure Data Storage

Any notes, forms, or messages are stored in a secure, cloud-based system with password protection and two-factor authentication.

βœ… 3. Private Physical Location

Your therapist or supervisor participates in sessions from a private, soundproofed space, free from distractions or interruptions.

βœ… 4. Informed Consent for Telehealth

Before starting virtual services, you’ll sign a Telehealth Agreement outlining:

  • Emergency plans
  • Confidentiality expectations
  • Your rights as a client or supervisee

This ensures transparency and mutual understanding from day one.


πŸ”‘ What You Can Do to Protect Your Privacy

Confidentiality is a shared responsibility in telehealth. Here are steps you can take:

πŸ§˜πŸ½β€β™€οΈ 1. Choose a Quiet, Private Space

Find a calm space where you feel emotionally and physically safe. If you’re in a shared environment:

  • Use headphones
  • Sit with your back to a wall
  • Play white noise outside the room if needed

πŸ“Ά 2. Secure Your Internet Connection

Use a private Wi-Fi network, not public hotspots. Consider password-protecting your router and using up-to-date antivirus software.

πŸ“± 3. Use a Password-Protected Device

Whether you use a phone, tablet, or laptop, be sure it’s:

  • Locked with a password or facial recognition
  • Free from malware or third-party surveillance apps
  • Used solely by you during the session

🧾 4. Avoid Recording Without Consent

For everyone’s safety and privacy, please do not record sessions unless explicitly discussed and approved by your therapist or supervisor.

Photo by Mizuno K on Pexels.com

⚠️ What About Emergencies?

Because telehealth providers may not be physically near you:

  • We ask for your physical location at the start of each session
  • We require an emergency contact
  • In the event of a crisis, we will guide you in contacting 911 or your nearest emergency services

πŸ–€ Final Thought: Confidentiality Is the Foundation of Trust

Virtual therapy and supervision should feel just as safe and protected as in-person sessions. At The Social Work Concierge, we honor your story β€” and protect your privacy β€” every step of the way.

You deserve care that’s not only effective, but ethically grounded and culturally aware.


πŸ“ Serving therapy clients and supervisees virtually across Michigan
πŸ“ž Call/Text: (616) 345-0616
🌐 www.socialworkconcierge.com πŸ“§ leonica@socialworkconcierge.com
πŸ–€ Healing should never be a privilege. Let’s make it a priority.

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