What is Telehealth Psychology?
Engaging with psychological therapy can be a new and daunting prospect for many individuals. With the rise of remote health service delivery, telehealth psychology has removed many of the traditional barriers to accessing mental health treatment.
Research shows that telehealth psychology sessions provide similar positive outcomes to treatment in traditional, face to face sessions. Many common therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) have been adapted and studied in remote, telehealth-based formats. For individuals considering engaging with telehealth sessions, please see below for some further considerations before booking your first session.
Benefits of telehealth psychology
Telehealth sessions offer flexibility, meaning you can access treatment from the comfort of your home. Most clients have enjoyed the limited barriers to accessing telehealth treatment, and have found that they can have just as meaningful engagement and connection during sessions as they would in a face to face setting.
You may live remotely or interstate and telehealth sessions enable you to access support of a particular psychologist you would otherwise not be able to reach.
Alternatively, you may find that you prefer to be in a familiar and comfortable surroundings to engage in therapy and have more open conversations. For certain presentations, including anxiety or OCD, telehealth may enable engagement in at home exposure exercises that would not otherwise be possible in a traditional clinic setting.
Limitations of telehealth psychology
Telehealth psychology requires individuals to have resources and private spaces within their home or private work space. For individuals who have limited access to reliable internet, or who are not able to find a space to safely and privately access sessions, in clinic treatment may be more appropriate. Telehealth psychology is not suggested for individuals with acute mental health concerns due to the barriers to accessing support for emergency circumstances.
Is telehealth right for me?
At your initial appointment enquiry, we will aim to assess your suitability for telehealth sessions by taking into consideration your unique circumstances and presenting concerns. After considering the benefits and limitations of telehealth therapy treatment, many individuals find they have a personal preference for telehealth or face to face sessions. If you are comfortable connecting with a therapist remotely and desire flexibility in accessing treatment, you may be well suited to telehealth psychology sessions.
What do I need for telehealth sessions?
Telehealth sessions are ideally conducted in a private space or room, on a desktop with microphone and video access and a reliable internet connection. Prior to your initial session, it is recommended to test your desktop to minimise technological difficulties. Having your phone nearby is essential to ensure that your psychologist can reach you should there be any issues with connectivity during your appointment.
