Last updated: July 12, 2026

 

1.  Information We Collect

We may collect basic, anonymous user data automatically, such as IP addresses, browser types, and pages visited, to improve your experience on this site. We also collect personally identifiable information, such as your name, email address, or phone number, only when you voluntarily provide it through contact forms, email, or signup forms on this site.

 

2.  Electronic Therapy & Telehealth Services Guidelines

Telehealth Across State Lines: What You Need to Know

If you meet with me through telehealth, it’s important to understand how your location affects your care. In the United States, therapy is legally considered to take place where you are physically located during each session—not where I am.

 

Because each state has its own licensing laws, I can provide services only in locations where I am legally authorized to practice. In some cases, authorization may also depend on my location and the rules of the state licensing board that governs the session.

 

How This May Affect You

If you are traveling, moving, or attending a session from another state, I may not be able to meet with you until I confirm what is allowed under that state’s laws.

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Cross-state telehealth may be permitted only if I have appropriate authorization, which may include:

• Full licensure in your state

• Authorization through an interstate compact

• Telehealth registration or another state-specific pathway

• Temporary practice permission (in limited cases)

 

These options vary widely by state and profession, and some pathways may not yet be active or available.

 

Even when telehealth is permitted, the laws and professional standards of the state where you are located will apply to our work together.

 

How I May Be Able to Work With You Across State Lines

Counseling Compact

• I hold a counseling license in Ohio, which is part of the Counseling Compact. This allows me, if eligible, to apply for practice privileges in participating states without obtaining a full separate license. Currently active compact states include:

  • Arizona

  • Georgia

  • Indiana

  • Louisiana

  • Minnesota

 

While many more states have joined, not all are operational yet. I always verify status before proceeding.

 

Telehealth Registration Pathways

Some states allow out-of-state therapists to provide telehealth through a registration process rather than full licensure. States that currently offer this option may include:

• Arizona

• Colorado

• Delaware

• Florida

• Vermont

 

Each state has its own requirements, and I confirm eligibility before continuing care.

 

Full Licensure

In some situations, continuing our work may require full licensure in your state. This depends on that state’s laws and whether it aligns with my practice.

 

Common Situations

If you move to another state

• You may not be able to continue therapy unless I am authorized in your new location.

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If you are traveling

• Even short-term travel can affect our ability to meet.

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If you split time between states

• What matters is your physical location at the time of each session—not your permanent address.

 

What to Expect

To support continuity and safety in your care:

• Please let me know in advance if you will be in a different state

• At the start of each session, I may confirm your location

• I may request updated contact information and a local emergency resource when appropriate

 

If I am not legally permitted to provide care where you are located, we may need to:

• Pause sessions

• Reschedule

• Arrange a referral to a provider licensed in your state

 

Why These Rules Exist

These regulations are in place to protect you by ensuring that therapists meet the legal, ethical, and professional standards required in the state where care is delivered.

 

Telehealth Across State Lines: Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my location matter for telehealth?

• Your location matters because therapy is legally considered to take place where you are physically located during the session. I am required to follow the laws of that state.

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Can we still meet if I’m in another state?

• Maybe. It depends on the laws of that state and whether I have the appropriate authorization. In some cases we can continue; in others we may need to pause or reschedule.

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What if I’m just traveling for a short time?

• Even short-term travel can affect our ability to meet. Please let me know in advance.

 

What happens if I move to a new state?

• We may not be able to continue working together unless I am authorized there. If needed, I will help coordinate a transition.

 

What if I live in two places?

• We follow the laws of the state you are physically in at the time of each session.

 

What should I do before my session?

• Let me know if you’ll be in a different state

• Be ready to confirm your location

• Provide updated contact information if needed

 

What if you’re not allowed to see me where I am?

• We may need to pause sessions, reschedule, or arrange a referral.

 

Can these rules change?

• Yes. Telehealth laws and licensing regulations change frequently and vary by state.

 

Important Telehealth Information

• Telehealth availability across state lines cannot be guaranteed and may change as laws, licensing requirements, insurance rules, and professional regulations evolve. Please be aware:

  • Authorization requirements may change

  • Not all states allow cross-state telehealth

  • Different rules may apply depending on your location

 

Even when telehealth is permitted, the laws of the state where you are located will govern our work together.

 

This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

 

David Fiala Information

I am an Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) licensed by the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Telehealth laws require me to practice within the jurisdiction where you are physically located. Therefore, my services are primarily limited to residents of Ohio.

 

If you are a resident of, or physically located in, a state that is an active member of the Counseling Compact, I may be authorized to provide services to you. Because authorization rules and compact privileges are subject to individual state legislation and vary by jurisdiction, you must contact me directly before scheduling to verify your specific location. 

 

If you are receiving online therapy services through this practice, appropriate technological and administrative measures are taken to ensure the confidentiality of your communications in compliance with Ohio Teletherapy Rules and federal requirements. Please note that online practice is subject to regulation in both the state where the client is located and the state where the practitioner is located.

 

Your Confidentiality & Privacy Rights

As an Ohio-licensed professional, the primary obligation of this practice is to protect the client's right to confidentiality as established by law and professional standards. Confidential information is only released with your written informed consent, except in specific circumstances required by law or to prevent clear and present danger.

 

Ohio Licensing & Board Contact Information

Under Ohio rules, licensees must prominently display licensing and board contact information. For questions about licensure or to verify credentials, contact the regulating board:

• Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage & Family Therapist Board

• Address: 77 S. High Street, 24th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215

• Phone: (614) 466-0912

• Website: cswmft.ohio.gov

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