SPA’s COVID-19 POLICIES
Washington Listens: (833) 681-0211 or walistens.org
Snohomish County Crisis Line: (425) 388-7215 or (800) 584-3578
Suicide Hotline: (800) 273-8255
We know that this is a difficult time for everyone. Please know that our providers are here for you and want to support your mental health and well-being. The following information outlines SPA’s policies and procedures in response to Washington State’s phased approach towards the COVID-19 pandemic. Our goal is to encourage best practices in accordance with Washington State ethics and law. Our policies are based on Washington state law, as well as Department of Health (DOH) guidelines, OSHA guidelines, and CDC guidelines. We’ve consulted with numerous sources including DOH employees to verify the ethics and legality of this policy.
Factoring in the above laws and guidelines, here is SPA’s policy regarding COVID-19.
- As of July 1st, 2021, we have reopened the waiting room and are easing back into in-person sessions. Telehealth is still an option at this time as well.
- Both providers and patients need to be wearing masks at all times, unless instructed by your clinician while privately in-session. Masks must be worn before re-entering the waiting room or any other common spaces. SPA is unfortunately not able to provide a mask for you, so please bring and wear your own if you will see a provider in person in one of our offices.
- Providers will wash their hands and wipe down common surfaces, such as door handles, tables, etc., between appointments.
According to Washington’s phased approach, our county has been approved for phase 2. In phase 2, Stay Home Stay Healthy remains in place, so SPA’s policy remains applicable. Once Washington state enters phase 3, while Stay Home Stay Healthy remains in place, larger gatherings are permitted (5-50 people). This may be an appropriate time for providers to transition patients from teletherapy to in-person therapy, although wearing masks may still be required ethically and legally. We will continue to provide updates as we move through these phases, or as any of the policies and procedures change.
WE’D ALSO LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE DR. KIRA MAUSETH AND DR. STACY CECCHET, MEMBERS OF THE WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH’S BEHAVIORAL HEALTH STRIKE TEAM! They are working closely with the state Department of Health to create and support guidance on behavioral health issues during the pandemic. They both have extensive experience in disaster response and mental health. We are grateful for their expertise and support of our community as we navigate the COVID-19 crisis!
Dr. Mauseth on on Q13 Fox news in response to re-opening (July 2021)
Here is Dr. Mauseth on Q13 Fox News discussing the current state of the Pandemic (March 2021)
Dr. Mauseth on King 5 News giving an update on ‘accelerated’ COVID-19 spread(November 2020)