What is true about providing counseling over the Internet for a client moving cities?

• A. Only allowed if the client moves to a different state
• B. Acceptable if the client remains in the licensed state
• C. Unacceptable under any circumstances
• D. Allowed only if in-person sessions are also offered

Answer: (B)

Providing counseling over the Internet is generally acceptable as long as the client remains within the licensed state of the counselor. This means that as long as the client does not cross state lines, the counselor can continue to offer services remotely without violating any state laws or regulations regarding licensure. Maintaining the client’s residency within the licensed state allows the professional to adhere to the ethical and legal guidelines established by state licensing boards.

The other options present situations where the feasibility of providing online counseling may be misinterpreted. For example, if the client moves to a different state, the counselor would not have the legal authority to continue providing services unless they are also licensed in that new state. Likewise, stating that counseling is unacceptable under any circumstances disregards the legal framework that allows for online counseling, as long as licensing regulations are followed. Lastly, indicating that counseling is only permissible if in-person sessions are offered conflicts with the growing acceptance of teletherapy, especially when in-person options may not be practical or necessary for all clients.