Therapy That Moves With You.

PSYPACT is an interstate compact that creates a regulated pathway for qualified psychologists to provide telepsychology across state lines and, with separate authorization, limited temporary in-person practice in participating jurisdictions.

The compact reduces regulatory barriers while preserving oversight by participating psychology boards. For clients, it can make it easier to continue an established therapeutic relationship when work, travel, or a move crosses state lines.

Yes. PSYPACT is enacted into law by each participating jurisdiction and administered by the PSYPACT Commission. An Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) is an authorization under the compact—not a separate license in every participating state.

Dr. Shields currently offers telepsychology to clients physically located in every jurisdiction where PSYPACT practice is effective, as well as care under her Texas and Oklahoma licenses. Compact status can change; review the practice-locations map above for the current coverage shown on this page.

Online therapy with Dr. Shields is currently unavailable in California, Guam, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Alaska, Iowa, and Louisiana have enacted PSYPACT legislation, but practice under the compact is not yet permitted in those jurisdictions.

Yes. Dr. Shields is currently accepting new individual therapy clients. A confidential initial consultation is the first step in determining availability and whether the practice is the right fit.

Yes. Most care is delivered through secure telehealth, and a small number of in-person appointments are also available. Current in-person availability and location can be discussed during the initial consultation.

Often, yes. You must be physically located in an effective PSYPACT jurisdiction—or another jurisdiction where Dr. Shields is independently authorized—at the time of the session. Share your travel location in advance so eligibility can be confirmed before you meet.

PSYPACT requires a psychologist using APIT to be physically located in their declared home state while providing telepsychology. Dr. Shields confirms that both her location and the client’s location are authorized before an interstate session takes place.

The PSYPACT Commission maintains a public directory of authorization holders. You can check the official PSYPACT directory (opens in a new tab).

PSYPACT is an authorization framework rather than a video platform. Sessions with Dr. Shields are delivered through a secure telehealth platform and follow applicable privacy and professional standards. Clients should also join from a private space using a reliable connection.

Yes. When medically necessary and clinically appropriate, Dr. Shields can provide a superbill that you may submit to your insurance plan for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Eligibility, documentation, and whether this is appropriate can be discussed during the initial meeting. Reimbursement is determined by your insurance plan and is not guaranteed.

In-person care may be preferable when private space or reliable technology is unavailable, when an in-person assessment or treatment is clinically indicated, or when urgent support is needed. A confidential consultation can help determine whether telehealth is an appropriate fit.