What must psychologists ensure regarding informed consent when using telehealth?

Psychologists must adhere to the same standards as in-person services regarding informed consent when using telehealth. This is crucial because informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in the practice of psychology. It ensures that clients understand the nature of the services being provided, the potential risks and benefits, and the limits of confidentiality—all of which remain unchanged whether services are delivered in person or via telehealth.

By maintaining these standards, psychologists uphold their professional responsibility to respect client autonomy and promote informed decision-making. This is especially important in telehealth, as clients may have unique concerns about privacy, technology use, and the therapeutic relationship that must be addressed thoroughly. Adhering to the same rigorous informed consent standards helps build trust and provides clients with the necessary information to engage in their treatment fully.

The other options do not align with the ethical requirements that govern psychological practice. Disregarding consent for efficiency undermines client rights, simplifying the process could lead to vital information being overlooked, and obtaining only verbal consent may not fulfill the legal requirement for written consent where necessary.