Telepsychiatry Consent

Effective Date: Oct 1, 2025
Last Updated: Jan 25, 2026

Brightview Integrative Health & Wellness offers telepsychiatry (online psychiatric care) as a convenient and secure way to receive mental health services. This page explains what telepsychiatry is, how it works, and your rights and responsibilities as a patient.

Please review this information carefully before participating in telepsychiatry services.

What Is Telepsychiatry?

Telepsychiatry is the delivery of psychiatric services using secure video communication technology. Instead of coming to the office, you meet with your provider from your home or another private location using a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Telepsychiatry may be used for:

• Psychiatric evaluations 
• Medication management 
• Follow-up appointments 
• Ongoing mental health care 

Benefits of Telepsychiatry

Telepsychiatry allows patients to:

• Access care from anywhere in Massachusetts 
• Reduce travel time and missed work or school 
• Receive care in a comfortable, familiar environment 
• Maintain continuity of care more easily
   

Risks & Limitations

While telepsychiatry is effective for many patients, there are potential risks, including:

• Technical difficulties (internet or device issues) 
• Interruptions due to connectivity problems 
• Limitations in conducting a full physical examination 
• Rare security risks associated with electronic communication 

Brightview uses HIPAA-compliant technology to reduce these risks as much as possible.

Confidentiality & Privacy

Telepsychiatry sessions are conducted using secure platforms designed to protect your privacy. You are responsible for:

• Being in a private location during sessions 
• Using a secure internet connection when possible 
• Keeping your login information confidential 

Sessions may not be recorded without your written consent.

Emergency Situations

Telepsychiatry is not appropriate for emergencies.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or feel unsafe, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Your Rights as a Patient

You have the right to:

• Ask questions about telepsychiatry at any time 
• Refuse or discontinue telepsychiatry services 
• Request in-person care when available 
• Access your medical records as permitted by law 

Your decision to receive telepsychiatry services is voluntary and will not affect your ability to receive care in the future.

Technology Requirements

To participate in telepsychiatry, you will need:

• A reliable internet connection 
• A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone 
• A private, quiet location 

If technical issues occur, your appointment may be rescheduled or converted to a phone or in-person visit when appropriate.

Consent to Telepsychiatry

By scheduling or participating in telepsychiatry services with Brightview Integrative Health & Wellness, you acknowledge that:

• You understand what telepsychiatry is and how it works 
• You understand the benefits and risks 
• You consent to receiving psychiatric care through telepsychiatry 
• You agree to the privacy and security guidelines described above
   

Formal consent may also be required through your intake paperwork.

Questions or Concerns

If you have questions about telepsychiatry or this consent, please contact:

Brightview Integrative Health & Wellness
Tewksbury, MA
Email: info@brightviewintegrativehealth.com