Compliance
HIPAA for solo therapists, in plain language
HIPAA protects clients' health information. In practice it comes down to a few habits: use a platform that will sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA), keep sessions on secure and encrypted channels, avoid storing protected health information (PHI) where it does not belong, and limit who can access it. HIPAA LINK signs a BAA on every plan, including Free, so you are covered from your first session.
Compliance
What a BAA is, and why it matters
A Business Associate Agreement is a contract between you (the covered entity) and any vendor that handles PHI on your behalf. It is required by HIPAA before you use a tool for client care. If a telehealth or notes vendor will not sign one, that is a red flag. With HIPAA LINK the BAA is included at no extra cost, and any subprocessor that could touch PHI operates under a BAA as well.
Telehealth
Reducing no-shows in a virtual practice
Most missed virtual visits trace back to friction or forgetfulness. Send a one-click join link that needs no download or account, use a branded waiting room so clients know they are in the right place, and confirm appointments by email or text. Making the first 30 seconds effortless is the single biggest lever on attendance.
Documentation
Using AI progress notes responsibly
AI can draft a structured note in minutes, but the clinician stays accountable. Get client consent before recording audio, review and correct every generated note before it enters the record, and keep the output in your own EMR. Treat AI as a fast first draft and a time-saver, never as a replacement for clinical judgment.
Clinical
Running EMDR over telehealth
Virtual EMDR works well when the setup is deliberate. Confirm a stable connection first, use integrated bilateral stimulation so the client follows a smooth visual or auditory cue, and check in on speed and comfort between sets. Keep grounding resources ready, and agree on a simple signal the client can use to pause at any time.
Client experience
Designing a calm, welcoming waiting room
The waiting room sets the tone before a word is spoken. Add your name and a short, warm message so clients feel expected, keep instructions minimal, and make sure the experience works on a phone in the client's language. Small touches of reassurance lower anxiety and help the session start on the right foot.