Review core modules, run procedures, track requirements, and access tools.
Tasks Completed: 0/23
Orientation & Foundations
Week 1 Core
Mandatory Onboarding & HIPAA Prerequisite
Please complete your mandatory onboarding requirements. HIPAA Training must be completed first to unlock the remaining activities. You may access this in the ATL Agreements tab in the Atlanta Telehealth Internship System once you log in.
Onboarding Order: HIPAA Training ATL Agreements & Knowledge Check System Activities.
Agency Orientation
Understand the agency's core mission, the specific populations served, and the unique procedures for telehealth service delivery.
Review agency mission statement and organizational chart.
Read the "Introduction to Telehealth Services" policy.
Attend mandatory orientation meeting with HR/Director.
Complete the brief online quiz on core agency values.
Ethical & Legal Foundations
Mandatory review of confidentiality standards, HIPAA regulations, ethical expectations, and appropriate technology use.
Read and sign the Confidentiality and HIPAA agreement.
Complete the required online training modules on ethics.
Discuss any ethical grey areas with your supervisor.
System Setup & Supervision
Gaining access to electronic systems (EHR/Office Ally) and establishing weekly supervision times.
Coordinate with Erica for 1-hour Office Ally system training.
Ensure access to Smartsheet (PHQ-9/Intake lists).
Establish supervision expectations and initial learning goals.
Note: Intern will provide the schedule and will have an agreement with the one doing the supervision.
Clinical Note: Intake Procedures
Current Operational Policy: Because of the current volume of active patients, conducting a telehealth intake appointment will be catered in the near future if lots of new patients are provided to us from the VA. Training protocols for live intakes will be released dynamically as client list parameters increase.
Week 1 Interactive Checklist
Toggle tasks below to track your onboarding achievements in real-time:
Intake & Consent Forms
Week 2 Core
Patient Tracking Database
Track consent lifecycles and monitor the 7-day completion window.
Intern Instructions: Completing Intake & Consent Forms
How to guide a patient through the Atlanta Telehealth Intake & Consent Forms.
Before You Start
Ensure the patient has privacy and enough time (allow 20–30 minutes).
Confirm the patient understands this is required for continued services.
Explain that this is a VA and agency compliance requirement for 2026.
Let them know: You can complete it together now, OR they may complete it independently within 7 days.
If not completed within 7 days, services could be interrupted.
How to Introduce the Form
“We recently completed an audit and found that we need updated 2026 consent paperwork on file. This is required by the VA and Atlanta Telehealth in order for your services to continue without interruption. We can go through this together now, or you may complete it on your own within 7 days.”
Confirm how they would like to proceed.
Section-by-Section Walkthrough Guide
1. Consent to Treat Policy
Section 1
What to Explain:
The purpose of therapy, confidentiality and its limits, cancellation policies, emergency procedures, and their rights as a client.
Important Talking Points:
Therapy is confidential except in cases of: Danger to self or others, Abuse/neglect reporting.
24-hour cancellation policy.
3 missed appointments may result in discharge.
Therapy is not emergency services.
Ask: “Do you have any questions about confidentiality or cancellation policies?”
Action: Have them print name and sign/date.
2. Emergency Contact Form
Section 2
What to Explain:
This is required for safety purposes. We only contact listed individuals in emergency events.
Make sure they complete:
Full legal name, DOB, Phone, Email.
Emergency contact name, phone, relationship.
VA physician information (if applicable).
Important: If they answer YES to VA physician — ensure all physician fields are completed.
Remind them: “Please notify us if this information ever changes.”
Action: Sign and date.
3. Consent for Evaluation/Assessment
Section 3
What to Explain:
Assessments help guide diagnosis and treatment planning. Participation is voluntary. Results remain confidential.
Ask: “Do you understand that assessments help us tailor treatment to your needs?”
Action: Have them sign and date.
4. Treatment Agreement
Section 4
What to Explain:
Therapy is collaborative. Sessions typically last 40–60 minutes. Payment responsibilities apply. Termination process is collaborative.
Highlight:
Fees and payment responsibility. Communication expectations. Crisis protocol (call 911, not therapist).
Action: Have them sign and date.
5. Notice of Privacy Practices (HIPAA)
Section 5
What to Explain:
How their health information is used. Their right to: Access records, Request amendments, and File complaints.
Ensure they understand: “This explains how we protect your health information.”
Action: Sign and date.
6. Informed Consent for Telehealth
Section 6
What to Explain:
Telehealth uses secure video channels. Risks include technology interruptions. They must ensure privacy on their end. Not appropriate for emergency crises.
Ask: “Are you comfortable continuing services via telehealth when applicable?”
Action: Sign and date.
7. Telephone Therapy Session Waiver
Section 7
What to Explain:
Applies if sessions occur by phone. May have limitations compared to video. Not appropriate for crisis situations.
Highlight:
Must maintain a private space. Emergency responsibility remains with patient.
Action: Sign and date.
8. Consent & Assignment of Benefits Form
Section 8
What to Explain to the Patient:
Billing Representative: "This form authorizes Atlanta Telehealth to submit billing claims to the VA on your behalf."
Direct Payment Flow: "By signing this, you permit the VA to make payments directly to our agency for your therapy sessions. This ensures there are no out-of-pocket costs to you."
Text Message Consent: "It also includes standard consent for us to send you appointment reminders via SMS. You can reply STOP to opt-out at any time."
What the Intern Must Do:
Verify Information: Ensure the patient's full legal name is filled in accurately on the authorization line of the form.
Present the Script: Explain the direct-billing representative clause clearly so the client is confident they will not receive invoices.
Toggle Choice: Explicitly ask if they agree to SMS text reminders and check the corresponding JotForm field.
Witness Signature: Ensure the patient signs and dates the electronic document within the portal.
Ensure: Patient Name, Current Date, Patient Signature.
Outreach Email Template
Subject: Action Required: Update Consent-to-Treat Agreement for Atlanta Telehealth
Dear [Patient Name],
I hope you are doing well.
We recently completed our 2026 operations audit and noticed we do not have an updated copy of your Treatment Consent agreement on file. The VA requires us to maintain an active copy of this documentation to ensure therapeutic sessions continue without operational delay.
Please securely complete and submit your form via the encrypted portal link below within the next 7 days:
https://form.jotform.com/232816001683451
You can complete this document in one of two ways:
1. Guided Session: We can complete the form together during our next call. I will answer any questions and guide you through the process.
2. Independent Track: You can complete and submit the form independently using the secure link above.
Please note: Failure to submit this compliance paperwork within 7 days may result in a temporary suspension of therapeutic sessions, as we must align with our primary VA support standards.
Please reply to this email to confirm your receipt and let me know how you prefer to complete the form.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
MSW Intern | Atlanta Telehealth LLC
Week 2 Interactive Checklist
PHQ-9 & GAD-7 Screenings
Week 3 Core
PHQ-9 & GAD-7 Patient List
Access the active Smartsheet database of patients requiring screening updates.
Developing expertise in clinical administration, timing, item evaluation, scoring, and response tracking of PHQ-9 (Depression) and GAD-7 (Anxiety) inventories.
Courtney's Training Track:
Courtney will run clinical orientation and guide you step-by-step on how to administer and score these key evaluations.
Patient Outreach Assignments: Following Courtney's guidance, you will receive assigned patients to contact and directly conduct these clinical screenings.
Observe a licensed staff member administering anxiety/depression tools at least twice.
Practice scoring clinical outcomes, evaluating severity triggers, and identifying safety warning flags.
Interdisciplinary Shadowing
Observing the collaborative, interdisciplinary roles of clinical Nurse Practitioners, Medical Doctors, administrative staff, and Social Workers in telehealth care delivery.
Coordinate clinical observing calendar directly with Nurse Practitioners and LCSWs.
Verify and confirm clear patient verbal consent prior to joining any video appointment.
Observe a minimum of 5 full patient appointments or evaluations.
Document critical notes, clinical interventions, and lessons for supervision reviews.
Practice Progress Documentation
Submission & Draft Note Directions
Practice clinical documentation by writing 5 progress notes in the SOAP/DAP format below based on actual patients. Submit these drafts directly to your supervisor for review. Do not enter draft practice notes directly into the live EHR platform.
Patient Name: __________________________
Date: _________________________________
Clinician: _____________________________
Type of Visit: _________________________
S – Subjective (Clinical History, Patient Reports, Key Quotes)
• Presenting concerns & primary statements:
• Symptom intensity, sleep logs, appetite changes:
• Safety triggers/protective factors reported:
O – Objective (Mental Status, Behaviors, Administered Scores)
• Behavioral presentations, client affect, eye contact:
• Administered screening scores: PHQ-9: ____ | GAD-7: ____
• Clinical indicators, compliance logs, visual safety indicators:
A – Assessment (Clinical Impression, Progression Targets)
• Progress summary, diagnostic impressions, symptoms matching:
• Evaluated risk profile & support utility:
• Therapeutic engagement barriers noted:
P – Plan (Interventions Used, Referrals, Next Sessions)
• Specific interventions applied during this session:
• Skills review and collaborative homework goals:
• Referrals made (e.g., NP Psychiatric Evaluation, Crisis services):
• Schedule target for subsequent session:
Practice SOAP Note - Crisis-Oriented Scenario Example
Patient Name: Sarah L. | Date: 02/12/2025 | Clinician: Kia – MSW Intern | Type: Urgent Telehealth
S – Subjective: Patient reports experiencing “really overwhelming anxiety” after a conflict at work. She states, “My chest feels tight and I feel like something bad is going to happen.” She reports difficulty concentrating and increased tearfulness over the past two days. Patient denies suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, or self-harm intent. She reports mild panic symptoms but states, “I don’t feel like I’m in danger; I just feel out of control.” She reports taking her medication as prescribed and using deep breathing with partial relief.
O – Objective: Patient appeared tearful but cooperative. Affect anxious; mood reported as “on edge.” Thought process intact; speech normal in rate and tone. No psychosis or delusional content observed. PHQ-9: 10 (moderate depression). GAD-7: 18 (severe anxiety). No immediate safety risks observed. Patient remained engaged and receptive to support.
A – Assessment: Patient is experiencing acute stress response and severe anxiety triggered by situational stressors at work. Despite elevated symptoms, patient denies intent or plan for self-harm and demonstrates insight and safety awareness. Risk level assessed as low, but requires close monitoring due to rapid symptom increase.
P – Plan: Reviewed grounding techniques, paced breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation. Assisted patient in creating a brief coping plan for work-related stress. Encouraged daily check-ins using anxiety rating scale. Referred patient to NP for medication review due to increasing anxiety symptoms. Crisis plan reviewed; patient verbalized understanding and agreed to call if symptoms worsen. Scheduled follow-up appointment in 3 days. Sent educational resources via secure email. Supervisor notified and consulted immediately after session.
Week 3 Interactive Checklist
Shadowing for Assessment with NP
Week 4 Core
Limit for now: 1 session only
NP Shadowing Goals
Observe a comprehensive psychiatric assessment conducted by our Nurse Practitioner to understand diagnostic logic, medication baseline evaluations, and risk mitigation.
Coordinate schedule with the NP for your designated observation session.
Observe clinical diagnostic evaluations and medication baseline checks.
Take detailed, de-identified clinical notes on assessment strategies and patient engagement.
Please note: Shadowing is strictly limited to 1 session for now.
Clinical Progress Reviews
Collaborate with university and agency coordinators to complete mid-term milestones.
Aggregate hourly practice logs and submit them to your supervisor for physical signature.
Submit your Intern Progress Self-Evaluation.
Ensure your Field Instructor has the link to complete your University Evaluation.
Example Biopsychosocial Assessment
Standard clinical blueprint used during telehealth assessments & intakes.
Name: Jane Doe (Fictional)
Age: 32
Gender: Female
Date of Assessment: June 4, 2026
Client Statement: "I've been feeling overwhelmed for the last several months. I have trouble sleeping, I worry constantly, and I don't have the energy to do things I normally enjoy."
Clinical Summary: Client reports symptoms of anxiety and depression that have worsened over the past six months following a job change and increased family responsibilities.
Medical History: Diagnosed with hypertension 2 years ago. No major surgeries. Reports chronic migraines.
Medications: Lisinopril 10 mg daily. No psychiatric medications currently.
Sleep: Sleeps approximately 4–5 hours per night. Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
Appetite: Decreased appetite. Reports 10-pound weight loss in the past three months.
Secondary Diagnosis: F32.0 Major Depressive Disorder, Mild
Treatment Recommendations:
Weekly individual therapy via telehealth.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Sleep hygiene education.
Stress management techniques.
Psychiatric evaluation if symptoms worsen.
Biological
• "Tell me about your current health conditions."
• "How have you been sleeping?"
• "Are you taking any medications?"
Psychological
• "How would you describe your mood recently?"
• "Have you ever been in counseling before?"
• "Have you had any thoughts of harming yourself?"
Social
• "Who do you live with?"
• "What supports do you have in your life?"
• "How is work affecting your stress level?"
Interactive Biopsychosocial Document Generator
Input client information to automatically build a clinical Biopsychosocial Assessment. Choose the demo load to view and download Jane Doe's standardized model assessment.
Client Demographics & Referral
Clinical Assessment Domains
Document Layout Preview
Week 4 Interactive Checklist
Shadowing for Therapy with Therapist
Week 5 Core
Limit for now: 1 session only
Therapy Observation Targets
Shadow a licensed staff therapist to observe therapeutic alliance building, active treatment intervention models (CBT, DBT, or trauma-focused approaches), and clinical closure protocols.
Obtain strict clinical consent from the patient and therapist prior to the session.
Observe application of evidence-based interventions in a live digital format.
Examine how therapists handle defensive reactions, emotional blocks, and therapeutic pacing.
Please note: Therapy shadowing is strictly limited to 1 session for now.
Post-Observation Prompts
Consider these key analytical questions following your observed therapy session to discuss during your next weekly supervision:
What specific evidence-based therapeutic frameworks did the clinician apply?
How did the clinician balance structured screening checks with active conversational flow?
How was the session wrapped up and what collaborative tasks were assigned to the client?
Biopsychosocial Case Reference Study
Understand therapeutic context and diagnosis benchmarks based on Jane's intake records.
Client: Jane Doe (32, F)
Primary Dx: F41.1 GAD
Secondary Dx: F32.0 MDD, Mild
Date: June 4, 2026
Presenting Problem: Client reports symptoms of anxiety and depression that have worsened over the past six months following a job change and increased family responsibilities. Sleeps only 4-5 hours per night.
Biological Domain
Medical: Diagnosed with hypertension 2 years ago, chronic migraines. Prescribed Lisinopril 10 mg daily.
Physiological: Sleeps 4-5 hours per night (difficulty falling/staying asleep). Decreased appetite, 10 lb weight loss in past 3 months. No illicit substance/nicotine use.
Psychological Domain
History & Status: Anxiety since college, brief counseling 5 years ago. No previous psychiatric hospitalizations.
Symptomology: Excessive worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, feelings of guilt. Risk profile is completely negative for SI/HI.
Social Domain
Environment & Supports: Stable housing. Married 8 years with two children (4 & 7). Employed full-time as project manager. Strong stress associated with work shifts. High cultural value in faith and family supportive pillars.
Analyze client records during therapy shadowing and build a customized Biopsychosocial assessment. Download or copy your work directly using the document preview pane below.