The Rise of Telepsychology

Mental health providers’ usage of telehealth modalities saw an exponential increase in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Some experts have suggested that it takes considerable time, education, consultation, and/or supervision to develop the new technology-based competencies. Education is required to understand not just the technologies, but the practices (e.g., ethical, legal, safety planning), differences from face-to-face care, and workflows. Given the need for rapid transition due to COVID-19, it is unclear how providers prepared for the integration of telehealth with their traditional practices. As such, the purpose of a new study in Professional Psychology: Research and Practice  was to examine mental health providers’ educational activities prior to and post telehealth implementation. Four hundred and four practicing providers (i.e., psychologists, counselors, therapists, social workers) were assessed via an online researcher-created survey. Results indicated significant increases in telehealth usage following COVID-19, with videoconferencing being the most common modality used. Although approximately 74% of surveyed providers sought telehealth education prior to usage, approximately 26% did not. In supplement of anything learned prior, approximately 61% indicated pursuing additional education post implementation. Taken together, a significant portion of providers can be viewed as having gained information that guided ethical, legal, and safe clinical services. Nevertheless, with consideration of the breadth and duration of the educational activities pursued, many providers would likely still benefit from additional education to foster a more complete understanding of the new telehealth competencies. Details regarding usage and educational activities are discussed. Application of information is outlined. Findings can help provide direction for additional educational efforts for providers. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)

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