PSYPACT

What is PsyPact?

The Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact, or PSYPACT, is an interstate compact designed to increase access to mental health care services across state boundaries. Psychologists with an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) are able to provide unlimited telehealth visits to patients in participating states. Psychologists may also apply for a Temporary Authorization to Practice (TAP) which allows them to provide a limited number of in-person visits in the patient’s home state (30 days per calendar year per PSYPACT state). Psychologists practicing under PSYPACT may have an APIT and/or an TAP.

PsyPact Credentialed

As a member of PSYPACT, Dr. Jesop is able to provide telehealth services to individuals living in the states listed below. As always, the decision to begin telehealth treatment depends upon a number of variables including the provider’s scope of practice and the patient’s current level of distress.

Participating States

Alabama

Arizona

Arkansas

Colorado

Delaware

District of Columbia

Georgia

Illinois

Indiana

Kentucky

Maine

Maryland

Minnesota

Missouri

Nebraska

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

North Carolina

Ohio

Oklahoma

Pennsylvania

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Best Practices

Psychologists practicing under PSYPACT remain responsible for best practices. For example, whether providing care through telehealth or in person, a psychologist remains responsible for practicing only within her areas of competence. As always, it’s important to consider whether telehealth is an appropriate form of treatment for each patient. Psychologists should also be aware of resources within the patient’s home state. A psychologist practicing under PSYPACT is subject to the receiving state’s scope of practice and those practicing under the TAP will be subject to the Distant State’s authority and law.

Effectiveness and Benefits of TeleHealth

Psychological interventions provided via telehealth have been researched and consistently found to be effective. Telehealth also increases accessibility. For example, PSYPACT may benefit those in rural areas, those in need of specialty care, those with limited time for traveling to appointments, and those who prefer an increased level of anonymity due to the stigma associated with reaching out for mental health care.

Continuity Of Care

PSYPACT allows a patient to continue working with their psychologist even if they move to another (PSYPACT) state. This is particularly helpful for college students who may toggle between two states throughout the year. It’s understandable that patients often prefer to continue working with their established provider, and research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most powerful agents of change.