Counselors give telephone advice in a variety of settings. The counselor who responds to a client’s question about an urgent problem or who takes a patient’s call about advice on how to handle achallenging situation is in a position to provide valuable information and make important assessments. But in their eagerness to help clients, counselors must be careful not to expose themselves to legal risks. Here are some tips to protect yourself while providing clients with quality information.
Consistency counts
Consistency helps ensure that questions are answered completely and effectively. Algorithms, protocols, and responses to frequently askedquestions are useful tools that also reduce legal risk. Tools should be predicated on current standards and evidence, so be sure to review them on a regular basis and update as needed. Counselors who will be responding to questions should receive special training in how to conduct an assessment over the phone.
….read the complete story ~ http://issuu.com/onlinetherapyinstitute/docs/tiltiss9?mode=window&pageNumber=37
This article first appeared in the January 2012 issue of TILT Magazine ~ Therapeutic Innovations in Light of Technology.
Reprinted with permission from Healthcare Providers Service Organization (HPSO); 159 E. County Line Road, Hatboro,PA 19040 1-800-982-9491 HPSO Risk Advisor 2011-2012.
