Telehealth Rules for Therapists in Washington (WA)
Telehealth Regulations in Washington
Washington regulates telehealth under Wash. Rev. Code § 18.83.090; § 48.43.735. This page covers the key requirements for providing therapy via telehealth to clients located in Washington.
Consent Requirements
Separate telehealth consent required: Yes — therapists must obtain specific informed consent for telehealth services in addition to general treatment consent.
Informed consent is required before telehealth services are delivered. Documentation must be maintained in the clinical record.
What to Include in Telehealth Consent
- Technology platform being used and security measures
- Privacy limitations of electronic communication
- Emergency procedures when therapist and client are in different locations
- Client's physical location at the time of each session
- Backup plan for technology failure
- Any limitations on services that can be provided via telehealth
Modality Requirements
Video-based synchronous telehealth and audio-only are both permitted. Washington has strong telehealth parity laws.
Interstate Practice & PSYPACT
PSYPACT member: Yes — Washington participates in the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT). Psychologists with an E.Passport from other PSYPACT member states may provide telehealth services to clients located in Washington without obtaining WA licensure.
PSYPACT member state. Non-PSYPACT providers must hold a Washington license.
Documentation Requirements for Telehealth Sessions
When documenting telehealth sessions in Washington, include:
- That the session was conducted via telehealth (not in-person)
- The specific platform used (e.g., Doxy.me, Zoom for Healthcare)
- Client's location at the time of service (city and state)
- Clinician's location at the time of service
- Confirmation that informed consent for telehealth was obtained
- Any technical difficulties and how they were managed
- Appropriate CPT modifier (95 for synchronous telehealth)
- Place of service code (POS 10 for telehealth in client's home)
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Washington Resources
Disclaimer: Telehealth regulations change frequently. This page provides general guidance based on publicly available information as of March 2026. Always verify current requirements with the Washington State Examining Board of Psychology before providing telehealth services.
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