Welcome to Recovery Café’s Telehealth Practice
At Recovery Café, we are proud to offer telehealth services, making it easier for us to connect with and serve communities across Georgia and beyond. Telehealth is a convenient and secure way to receive treatment and support, allowing you to participate in sessions from the comfort of your own space.
All aspects of your journey with us—whether it’s individual counseling, group sessions, or program completion—are conducted online. Communication will primarily be through email, which we use to share important updates, session links, and resources. Please ensure that your email is checked regularly and that you can access attachments and other digital tools required for your sessions.
We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of privacy and security in all our telehealth services. You can review our Privacy Policy, which includes details about how we handle your information and maintain digital security.
Getting the Most Out of Telehealth
To ensure a meaningful and productive experience, please follow these essential ground rules during your telehealth sessions:
- Find a Quiet, Private Space: Choose a location where you won’t be interrupted and where others cannot overhear your session. This ensures privacy and confidentiality for all participants.
- Be Alone During Sessions: For the comfort and confidentiality of everyone, sessions should not include family members, roommates, or other individuals.
- Be On Time: Log in at least 5 minutes early to test your setup. Sessions will start promptly as scheduled.
- Use a Stable Device and Internet: A reliable connection and a working device with a camera and microphone are essential. Whenever possible, use a laptop or desktop for the best experience.
- Stay Fully Engaged: Turn off notifications, silence your phone, and avoid multitasking during sessions. Active participation is key to your success.
Our telehealth approach ensures that you receive consistent, high-quality care no matter where you are. If you have questions or concerns about using telehealth tools or meeting the requirements, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!
Tech Readiness Check for Our Online Programs
To ensure our program is a great fit for you, we’ve created this quick guide to help you feel comfortable with the tools and technology we use. Please read through and answer honestly. If you have any concerns, don’t worry—we’re here to help!
1. Accessing and Using Email
- Do you check your email regularly?
- This is how we send you Zoom links, program updates, and reminders.
- Can you locate and open attachments (e.g., PDFs) in your email?
- Forms and essential documents will often be sent as attachments.
- Can you search your email for past messages?
- Did you misplace an email? Searching your inbox can help you retrieve it.
2. Using Our Group Member Page
- Do you know how to visit a password-protected webpage?
- We have a group member page with program updates, schedules, and resources.
- Accessing the page requires a group-wide password, which we’ll provide (it’s simple and easy to remember).
3. Using Google Calendar
- Do you use Google Calendar (or another calendar system)?
- Our session invites are emailed and can be added to your calendar.
- Can you accept a calendar invite?
- You’ll need to click “Accept” in the invitation email to see it appear in your calendar.
- Do you know how to check your calendar for upcoming events?
4. Using Zoom
- Do you have Zoom installed on your device?
- Have you used Zoom recently?
- If not, it’s a good idea to refresh your memory with a Zoom test meeting. (Don’t worry, there are no people in there; it just tests your camera and mic 😬)
- Do you know how to join a Zoom meeting using the link we provided?
- You’ll receive a link for each session. Clicking it will take you directly to the meeting.
- Do you know how to turn on your camera and microphone?
- Having your camera on is required during sessions, and you’ll need to unmute yourself when speaking.
5. Completing Forms and PDFs
- Can you open and fill out a PDF form?
- Do you know how to save and send a completed form?
6. Reliable Internet and Devices
- Do you have a reliable internet connection?
- A stable connection is essential for uninterrupted Zoom sessions.
- Do you have a working device with a camera and microphone?
- This can be a computer, tablet, or smartphone. However:
- We recommend using a computer or laptop whenever possible.
- Why? Some slides, PDFs, and tools (e.g., the Wheel of Life) may be hard to view or interact with on a smaller screen like a smartphone.
- If you must use a phone, ensure you can zoom in and navigate PDFs comfortably.
7. Group Rules for Online Sessions
To ensure that all participants have a meaningful and respectful experience, we ask you to follow these rules:
- Privacy:
- Join the session in a private room where you won’t be interrupted.
- No one else, including family members or roommates, should be present during the session.
- Promptness:
- Log in 5 minutes early to make sure everything is working. Sessions start promptly.
- Respect:
- Be kind and respectful when others are speaking. Avoid interrupting or talking over others.
- Camera On:
- Keep your camera on throughout the session unless there is a technical issue or emergency.
- Active Participation:
- Stay engaged during the session and avoid multitasking (e.g., scrolling on your phone or working).
- Mute When Not Speaking:
- Mute yourself when you’re not talking to minimize background noise.
- Confidentiality:
- Everything shared in the group stays in the group. Do not record or share what others say.
8. A Few Friendly Reminders
- Zoom Refresher:
- If it’s been a while since you used Zoom, we recommend revisiting the platform for a quick refresher.
- If you’re unsure about using features like “Unmute” or “Raise Hand,” practice with a friend or family member.
- Keep Distractions Away:
- Ensure your phone is silenced and notifications on your computer are turned off.
- Test Your Equipment:
- Before the session, check your microphone, camera, and internet connection to avoid delays.
Next Steps
If you feel confident about the points above, you’re ready to join us. We look forward to supporting you on this journey!