How do I, a LPC, start an online practice?
Legal & Regulatory
<p>This is a great question - especially since technology assisted counseling is definitely the current growing edge of the field.</p><p>There are a few things you'll want to look into before starting an online practice:</p><p>1) Check out your state laws regarding online counseling - keep in mind there are different terms used in different states Including "technology assisted" or "distance" counseling. So it might take a little searching to find your state's rules. &nbsp;</p><p>Some states have extensive regulations regarding the scope of practice, informed consent, documentation, etc. &nbsp;Other states do not have any specific laws or policies regarding online counseling at all.</p><p>2) Next, it's a good idea to review the 2014 ACA code of ethics and the 2015 AMHCA code of ethics. Both have extensive new sections addressing the ethics of online counseling.</p><p>3) Lastly, you'll need to look into the law in the state(s) where your potential clients are located. &nbsp;This is really important since nearly every state considers counseling to occur in both the location of the client and the location of the counselor. &nbsp;For example, New York has a law that specifically requires any counselor who is providing online counseling services to a client in the state to be licensed by New York.</p>