Counselors
Counselors
CODE OF ETHICS AND STANDARDS OF PRACTICE
A.12. TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
a. Use of Technology. When technology applications are used in counseling services, licensed professional counselors must ensure that: (1) the client is intellectually, emotionally, and physically capable of using the technology application; (2) the technology application is appropriate for the needs of the client; (3) the client understands the purpose and operation of the technology applications; and (4) a follow-up of client use of a technology application is provided to correct possible misconceptions, discover inappropriate use, and assess subsequent needs.
b. Explanation of Limitations. Licensed professional counselors ensure that clients are provided information as a part of the counseling relationship that adequately explains the limitations of technology applications.
c. Access to Technology Applications. Licensed professional counselors provide for equal access to technology applications in counseling services. (See A.2.a.).
d. Distance Technology Counseling Services. Licensed professional counselors who employ distance technology for counseling services must observe and demonstrate all aspects of client rights and welfare, client confidentiality, professional responsibility (including relationships with other professionals), procedures for assessment, and resolution of ethical issues reflected in the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice adopted by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling. Addressing and resolving any disparities between ethical or legally-mandated practices required in face-to-face counseling services versus distance technology counseling services is the ethical duty of the licensed professional counselor. Ethical standards for a licensed professional counselor who employs distance technology counseling services shall apply to client care and public protection regardless of the destination point of such counseling services, unless otherwise prohibited by law. (See A.3.a.).
Note: As this is a free resource and Rules and Regulations regarding Telehealth are always changing, we appreciate any updates or corrections. They can be emailed to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a link to the source or a citation of the rule or regulation.
Telemental health is not a separate service from mental health services. All state licensing boards require that licensed clinicians follow all the regulations for practicing under their license no matter what medium of communication is used. All licensing boards also require that clinicians only practice within the boundaries of their competence. This usually requires education, continuing education, and/or supervision in telemental health. Complete our telehealth training program to cover all the essential competencies of providing telemental health services and earn the THTC (Telemental Health Training Certificate).
Social Workers
We are not aware of any specific rules and regulations of the practice of telemental health services for Social Workers.