At Rula, we recommend using an evidence-based safety planning template, such as the Stanley Brown, which you and your clients can easily access via the provider portal
Create a Safety Plan directly in the provider portal
- Completing a Safety Plan with a client at increased risk for suicide, risk to others, or self-harming behavior is an essential step to ensuring a client’s care needs are being met.
- You can add or update a client's safety plan from a session note in the Rula provider portal. This option offers the ability to collaboratively create a Safety Plan with the client in session and document the safety plan directly in the client's record.
Safety Plan FAQ:
- How do I update the Safety Plan? In the Rula provider portal, you cannot update or edit a safety plan note once signed; If updates are needed, you can create a new safety plan at any time.
- Can I bill for completing a Safety Plan with a client? Safety Planning should occur collaboratively during the session with your client, and you will capture the time spent creating the Safety Plan in the CPT code you are already using. For example, you might spend 20 minutes safety planning during a 55-minute 90837 Individual Therapy session.
- Can I just use a “safety contract” with clients instead of a safety plan? As a profession, we do not “contract for safety” or use a “no-suicide contract.” There is no evidence that these approaches work, nor are they considered trauma informed approaches to managing risk. Additionaly, a no-suicide contract does not protect therapists from potential liability should a client's suicide occur.
- Does Rula have a Policy on Risk Assessment and Safety Planning? Yes, it can be found here.
- Can I see an example of a completed safety plan? You got it! Click HERE.
If you have questions or support needs related to Safety Plans, reach out to our clinical quality team at quality@rula.com. Therapist to therapist - we’re here for you!
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