CALPCC operates with the view that the individual, family and larger society are all important in the development and resolution of problems, including the Coronavirus Pandemic. We are deeply concerned about all of our members and the communities we serve during this pandemic and we are dedicated to doing all that we can to help. Our mission as an organization and our service-orientation address the individual, family and society using culturally responsive methods that promote well-being and reflect our commitment to high standards of service, training, and supervision. We are committed to supporting our members in providing service with integrity that promotes the well-being of all of our diverse community members. We also have a strong belief in a feedback-informed culture, which is why we would greatly appreciate any feedback that our members have related to the pandemic.

CALPCC also does not condone any harassment or violence against the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community. This virus impacts communities of all races and ethnicities. We hope that our membership joins us in combating any disparaging messages and actions against the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community as we move forward together to keep each other healthy and safe.

Here are some precautions we can take to keep the transmission of the virus to a minimum:

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. It is also ok to use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Avoid touching your face. This means not touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home if you are sick. Keep sick children home from daycare or school.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or into a tissue. If you use a tissue, wash your hands afterward.
• Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces in your home and office. This means doorknobs, light switches, door handles, drawer pulls, office chairs, water machines, desks, lamps, etc.
• Manage your stress, sleep well, eat healthy foods, and drink plenty of liquids.
• Consider staying away from large public gatherings and crowded spaces.

For those in practice:

• Consider teletherapy through any number of HIPAA Compliant software programs.
• Avoid hugging or shaking hands with clients in the office. Consider an elbow bump or verbal greeting.
• If possible, sit 3-6 ft away during a session.
• Regularly sanitize your office setting and wash hands.
• If your clients are sick or appear to be sick, send them home and encourage them to utilize tele-therapy.
• Encourage clients to take similar precautions when out in public.

Also, remember the high-risk populations:

• Those over 60 years of age,
• Those that are immuno-compromised,
• Those that are pregnant,
• Those that have traveled outside of the country in the last two weeks.

Please see the communication from the BBS about COVID-19 and rules regarding telehealth.

At this time, CALPCC will be canceling all public regional events until further notice. This includes regional networking activities, Continuing Education seminars or events, and other social activities. Please stay tuned to CALPCC Social Media, your email, and our website for updates.

For more information, please visit these sites below to learn the latest about COVID-19:

• Centers for Disease Control
• California Dept of Public Health
• San Francisco Department of Public Health
• Los Angeles Department of Public Health
• Sacramento Department of Public Health
• San Diego Department of Public Health
• Santa Clara Department of Public Health

We also recognize that this time may lead to additional emotional and financial stress for families. Below are resources that may be of assistance:

• National Parent Helpline 1-855-427-2736
• Parents Helping Parents 1-800-632-8188
• California Youth Crisis Line 1-800-843-5200
• California Department of Social Services (916) 651-8848
• California Information Resource Guide

At CALPCC we are committed to your safety and understand the pressures that this may cause in terms of interruptions in practice, interruptions to your clients, and a general sense of anxiety that this may bring.

Be kind to one another during this time, reach out and check on your colleagues, friends, and family, and follow the appropriate steps in staying healthy.

Be well,
The CALPCC Team and the CALPCC Board of Directors