Virtual Group Informed Consent
This informed consent for virtual groups is important to create a trauma-informed and safe community. These support groups are held on Google Meets and members can join via phone or internet. It is preferred that members participate on camera with a first name to increase community connections. If joining by phone, you will be asked to identify a first name. Each meeting will last an hour.
Meetings end and begin on time, and members are asked to participate for the entire hour. Please be aware that these are support groups and not therapy or counseling groups. The purpose of these groups is for community members to share their experiences, support, and resources with each other. Each group is drop-in; however, you must pre-register. Please read the community rules below carefully and contact Dr. McFarlane if you have any questions.
Community Rules
I agree that I will follow the following community rules:
Be on time. Arriving on time allows everyone to get into a good rhythm. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, you will not be admitted into the meeting.
Reduce distractions. Being in a space that has few distractions (others, electronics, other media) allows you to participate in the conversation and increases the community’s confidentiality and privacy.
Use “I” statements. We are a diverse community with diverse viewpoints, experiences, and feelings. Please discuss information from the “I” perspective.
Be respectful. Respect is an important factor in the community to create a safe environment for others to share their experiences and feelings.
Keep confidentiality. Please keep information shared in the meetings inside of the meetings. If you see members in the community, please respect people’s boundaries and right to privacy.
Share the space. Please discuss your viewpoints in a way that allows other community members the time to share.
I agree as a member of the group to not discuss or describe information about other member’s appearance, personal information, or discussions that have been shared.
I understand that a support group is not group therapy and if I am in need of therapy, I can reach out to Dr. McFarlane for a referral for mental health treatment.
I understand that If I am displaying behaviors that are of concern for my mental health status, Dr. McFarlane may contact me to discuss a referral for mental health treatment.
I understand that while the meeting will be held on a HIPPA-compliant platform, my confidentiality cannot be guaranteed as information is being shared in a group setting.
I understand that I cannot record the session in any way. Personal notes are acceptable.
I understand that Dr. McFarlane is a mandated reporter and any statements that indicate notifying the appropriate authorities will occur.
I understand that statements of suicidality may lead to Dr. McFarlane contacting my emergency contact.
If at any time I feel like harming myself or injuring another person, I will let Dr. McFarlane know or contact my individual therapist, psychiatrist, or my primary care provider. If I cannot reach them, I will call 911 or go the nearest emergency hospital.
