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Clough BA, Alderson A, Savage S, Farrer L, Kebbell M. Can you tell me more about that? An examination of self-disclosure in videoconference and face-to-face psychological interviewing. Psychol Psychother 2024; 97:518-530. [PMID: 38923149 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Videoconference psychotherapy (VCP) is a crucial component of many health care systems, allowing for remote delivery of services. However, little is known about the mechanisms of change within VCP. Previous research has suggested that self-disclosure may be greater in VCP than face-to-face modalities and was investigated in the current study. DESIGN Young adults aged 18-25 years (N = 57) were randomly allocated to face-to-face or VCP interview conditions, with measures completed pre- and post-interview. METHODS Participants completed an autobiographical memory task, requiring them to describe specific memories in response to positive and negative valence cue words. Measures included self-reported self-disclosure, blind observer-rated self-disclosure, memory specificity, and mean number of words per response. RESULTS No significant differences were found between conditions with regard to self-reported self-disclosure, capacity to recall specific memories, or words uttered per response. However, observer-rated depth of self-disclosure was significantly higher for participants in the face-to-face than VCP condition. Self-disclosure and memory specificity were also significantly greater for negative than positive valence cue words, regardless of condition. CONCLUSIONS The findings indicate that whilst participants may be able to draw on memories with equal ease regardless of interview modality, in VCP, emotional processing of these memories may require increased support and guidance from the therapist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie A Clough
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mt Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Centre for Mental Health, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Angie Alderson
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mt Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stacey Savage
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mt Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
| | - Louise Farrer
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Mark Kebbell
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mt Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
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Asbrand J, Gerdes S, Breedvelt J, Guidi J, Hirsch C, Maercker A, Douilliez C, Andersson G, Debbané M, Cieslak R, Rief W, Bockting C. Clinical psychology and the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed methods survey among members of the European Association of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Treatment (EACLIPT). CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY IN EUROPE 2023; 5:e8109. [PMID: 37064999 PMCID: PMC10103154 DOI: 10.32872/cpe.8109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people globally both physically and psychologically. The increased demands for mental health interventions provided by clinical psychologists, psychotherapists and mental health care professionals, as well as the rapid change in work setting (e.g., from face-to-face to video therapy) has proven challenging. The current study investigates European clinical psychologists and psychotherapists’ views on the changes and impact on mental health care that occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It further aims to explore individual and organizational processes that assist clinical psychologists’ and psychotherapists’ in their new working conditions, and understand their needs and priorities.
Method
Members of the European Association of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Treatment (EACLIPT) were invited (N = 698) to participate in a survey with closed and open questions covering their experiences during the first wave of the pandemic from June to September 2020. Participants (n = 92) from 19 European countries, mostly employed in universities or hospitals, completed the online survey.
Results
Results of qualitative and quantitative analyses showed that clinical psychologists and psychotherapists throughout the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic managed to continue to provide treatments for patients who were experiencing emotional distress. The challenges (e.g., maintaining a working relationship through video treatment) and opportunities (e.g., more flexible working hours) of working through this time were identified.
Conclusions
Recommendations for mental health policies and professional organizations are identified, such as clear guidelines regarding data security and workshops on conducting video therapy.
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Kister K, Laskowski J, Dybała E, Makarewicz A. Are we ready for Telepsychiatry? Benefits and challenges of digital
psychotherapy. CURRENT PROBLEMS OF PSYCHIATRY 2023. [DOI: 10.12923/2353-8627/2023-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine is one of the most modern and fastest-growing branches of medicine. The most common form is video consultation. We distinguish between synchronous and asynchronous telepsychiatry. This study aims to show the benefits of using telepsychiatry services, the challenges it poses to users, and to evaluate its use against traditional therapy.
Materials and methods: A review of literature from 1956-2023 in EMBASE, OpenKnowledge and PubMed databases was conducted. Keywords used were: telepsychiatry, teletherapy, and digital psychiatry. Ninety-eight articles were included.
Discussion: Telepsychiatry is an opportunity for regions affected by medical staff shortages. It bypasses cultural barriers, the problem of traveling and reduces the cost of medical point-of-service. Telepsychiatry is an opportunity for patients who do not use psychiatrists due to discrimination in a conservative society. Groups that may find it challenging include the elderly, the blind, and the deaf. Creating a healthy therapeutic alliance through a screen can be impossible, making it difficult to achieve successful therapy. A barrier to developing telepsychiatry is the need for more guidelines for dealing with medical errors.
Conclusions: Telemedicine can help in accessing specialized care regardless of location. Telepsychiatry provides a safe and anonymous environment for patients reluctant to receive inpatient therapy. The effectiveness of online therapy is primarily debated. Telepsychiatry should be limited to follow-up consultations and well-known patients - it is a form of complementing the diagnosis and treatment process. The authors point to the need for developing specific guidelines for conducting teletherapy with particular attention to the problem of suicide.
Keywords: telepsychiatry, teletherapy, digital psychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Kister
- I Departmentof Psychiatry, Psychoterapy and Early Intervention of Medical University in Lublin, Poland - Students Research Group
| | - Jakub Laskowski
- Department of Paediatrician Oncology, Transplantology and Haematology Medical University of Lublin, Poland - Students Research Group
| | | | - Agata Makarewicz
- I Department of Psychiatry, Psychoterapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
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Sierra MA, Ruiz FJ. Content validity and perceived utility of a self-help online acceptance and commitment therapy program focused on repetitive negative thinking. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2022; 26:1-10. [PMID: 35990417 PMCID: PMC9381937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Telehealth strategies have become essential for responding to the sanitary emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, developing online psychological interventions (OPIs) that can treat and prevent psychological difficulties is gaining more relevance. This article describes an acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) based OPI focused on repetitive negative thinking (RNT). This OPI is called Disentangled, Aware, and Committed (DAC) and represents an attempt to adapt previous RNT-focused ACT protocols to this format type. Study 1 evaluated content validity through the assessment of four experts in ACT regarding clarity, utility, pertinence, conceptual adjustment, and therapeutic goal fulfillment for each component of the DAC program. In Study 2, forty-one undergraduate clinical psychology trainees rated the components of the DAC program according to its clarity and perceived utility. These participants were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial that analyzed the efficacy of the DAC to prevent the usually observed increase in emotional symptoms and RNT among this population. Expert reviewers in Study 1 rated all DAC components as clear and useful for potential users, following a logical order, theoretically coherent with the ACT model, and successfully fulfilling its stated goals. In Study 2, the participants also rated the DAC components as clear and potentially useful for their lives. In conclusion, the DAC appears to be a feasible transdiagnostic OPI for treating and preventing emotional symptoms, which warrants further studies analyzing its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marge A Sierra
- Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz, Carrera 9 Bis, Nº 62-43, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Francisco J Ruiz
- Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz, Carrera 9 Bis, Nº 62-43, Bogotá, Colombia
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5
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Patients' experiences of home-based psychotherapy via videoconference: A qualitative study. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2022; 39:91-96. [PMID: 35688550 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore adult outpatients' experiences with home-based psychotherapy via videoconferencing in a Danish mental health service. Participants found videoconferencing-based psychotherapy for preventive relapse sessions very useful, and they believed that it was possible to maintain a good therapeutic relationship via videoconferencing when they knew their therapist in advance. However, experiences with more in-depth psychotherapy are more unclear as some felt alienated and preferred other ways to communicate. In general, participants found videoconferencing-based psychotherapy to be less personal but worth considering when travel hassles outweigh the need for meeting in person.
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6
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Moeller AM, Christensen LF, Hansen JP, Andersen PT. Patients' acceptance of video consultations in the mental health services: A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative research. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221075148. [PMID: 35154803 PMCID: PMC8832590 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221075148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinical effectiveness of video consultations in the mental health services is comparable with in-person consultations. Acceptance has typically been rated in surveys that do not give a deeper understanding behind the phenomenon. The aim of this synthesis is to explore mental health patients’ perceptions of factors that influence their acceptance of video consultations viewed from the perspective of the patient. Methods A literature search in scientific databases was conducted. Peer-reviewed reports of qualitative research exploring patients’ experiences with video consultations from the patients’ perspectives were included. Then a meta-summary and a taxonomic analysis were conducted. Results A total of 11 reports met the inclusion criteria. Through the analysis, a model was generated with five factors that precede each other and interact with each other. Patients thought video consultations were acceptable when (1) they experienced barriers and inconvenience to accessing the location of services, (2) they had already established a trustful relationship with their therapist, (3) technical interferences were minor and problems were resolved quickly, (4) patients expected a less personal meeting, and (5) the degree of the patients’ issues were less complex. Discussion This model is intended to help clinicians identify circumstances where offering video consultations make best sense to patients and help sustain meaningful use prospectively. When patients encounter barriers to in-person services, clinicians should consider offering video consultations when the technology is adequately integrated in practice, and it is perceived not to intervene with treatment or the therapeutic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie Moeller
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark.,Research Unit for Telepsychiatry and E-mental Health, The Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Lone F Christensen
- Department for Clinical Development, Odense University Hospital, Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark.,Psychiatric Research Unit Esbjerg, The Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Hansen
- Psychiatric Research Unit Esbjerg, The Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark.,Center for Clinical Nursing Research, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
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Thomas N, McDonald C, de Boer K, Brand RM, Nedeljkovic M, Seabrook L. Review of the current empirical literature on using videoconferencing to deliver individual psychotherapies to adults with mental health problems. Psychol Psychother 2021; 94:854-883. [PMID: 33620133 PMCID: PMC8451850 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a widespread adoption of videoconferencing as a communication medium in mental health service delivery. This review considers the empirical literature to date on using videoconferencing to deliver psychological therapy to adults presenting with mental health problems. METHOD Papers were identified via search of relevant databases. Quantitative and qualitative data were extracted and synthesized on uptake, feasibility, outcomes, and participant and therapist experiences. RESULTS Videoconferencing has an established evidence base in the delivery of cognitive behavioural therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, with prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, and behavioural activation non-inferior to in-person delivery. There are large trials reporting efficacy for health anxiety and bulimia nervosa compared with treatment-as-usual. Initial studies show applicability of cognitive behavioural therapies for other anxiety and eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, but there has yet to be study of use in severe and complex mental health problems. Therapists may find it more difficult to judge non-verbal behaviour, and there may be initial discomfort while adapting to videoconferencing, but client ratings of the therapeutic alliance are similar to in-person therapy, and videoconferencing may have advantages such as being less confronting. There may be useful opportunities for videoconferencing in embedding therapy delivery within the client's own environment. CONCLUSIONS Videoconferencing is an accessible and effective modality for therapy delivery. Future research needs to extend beyond testing whether videoconferencing can replicate in-person therapy delivery to consider unique therapeutic affordances of the videoconferencing modality. PRACTITIONER POINTS Videoconferencing is an efficacious means of delivering behavioural and cognitive therapies to adults with mental health problems. Trial evidence has established it is no less efficacious than in-person therapy for prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, and behavioural activation. While therapists report nonverbal feedback being harder to judge, and clients can take time to adapt to videoconferencing, clients rate the therapeutic alliance and satisfaction similarly to therapy in-person. Videoconferencing provides opportunities to integrate therapeutic exercises within the person's day-to-day environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Thomas
- National eTherapy CentreSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Alfred HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Caity McDonald
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Kathleen de Boer
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Rachel M. Brand
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- School of Health and Behavioural SciencesUniversity of the Sunshine CoastSippy DownsQldAustralia
| | - Maja Nedeljkovic
- National eTherapy CentreSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Liz Seabrook
- National eTherapy CentreSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne University of TechnologyMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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8
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Cosh S, Rice K, Bartik W, Jefferys A, Hone A, Murray C, Lykins AD. Acceptability and feasibility of telehealth as a training modality for trainee psychologist placements: a COVID-19 response study. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00050067.2021.1968275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Cosh
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Kylie Rice
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Warren Bartik
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Amanda Jefferys
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Alice Hone
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Clara Murray
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Amy D. Lykins
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
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9
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Venville A, O'Connor S, Roeschlein H, Ennals P, McLoughlan G, Thomas N. Mental Health Service User and Worker Experiences of Psychosocial Support Via Telehealth Through the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Study. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e29671. [PMID: 34182461 PMCID: PMC8362804 DOI: 10.2196/29671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw telehealth rapidly become the primary way to receive mental health care. International research has validated many of the benefits and challenges of telehealth known beforehand for specific population groups. However, if telehealth is to assume prominence in future mental health service delivery, greater understanding of its capacity to be used to provide psychosocial support to people with complex and enduring mental health conditions is needed. OBJECTIVE We focused on an Australian community-managed provider of psychosocial intervention and support. We aimed to understand service user and worker experiences of psychosocial support via telehealth throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This study was jointly developed and conducted by people with lived experience of mental ill health or distress, mental health service providers, and university-based researchers. Semistructured interviews were conducted between August and November 2020 and explored participant experiences of receiving or providing psychosocial support via telehealth, including telephone, text, and videoconferencing. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically; quantitative data were collated and analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Service users (n=20) and workers (n=8) completed individual interviews via telephone or videoconferencing platform. Service users received psychosocial support services by telephone (12/20, 60%), by videoconferencing (6/20, 30%), and by both telephone and videoconferencing (2/20, 10%). Of note, 55% (11/20) of service user participants stated a future preference for in-person psychosocial support services, 30% (6/20) preferred to receive a mixture of in-person and telehealth, and 15% (3/20) elected telehealth only. Two meta-themes emerged as integral to worker and service user experience of telehealth during the pandemic: (1) creating safety and comfort and (2) a whole new way of working. The first meta-theme comprises subthemes relating to a sense of safety and comfort while using telehealth; including trusting in the relationship and having and exercising choice and control. The second meta-theme contains subthemes reflecting key challenges and opportunities associated with the shift from in-person psychosocial support to telehealth. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings highlighted that most service users experienced telehealth positively, but this was dependent on them continuing to get the support they needed in a way that was safe and comfortable. While access difficulties of a subgroup of service users should not be ignored, most service users and workers were able to adapt to telehealth by focusing on maintaining the relationship and using choice and flexibility to maintain service delivery. Although most research participants expressed a preference for a return to in-person psychosocial support or hybrid in-person and telehealth models, there was a general recognition that intentional use of telehealth could contribute to flexible and responsive service delivery. Challenges to telehealth provision of psychosocial support identified in this study are yet to be fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Venville
- Social Work, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Footscray, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Neil Thomas
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
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Classen B, Tudor K, du Preez E, Day E, Ioane J, Rodgers B. An Integrative Review of Contemporary Perspectives on Videoconference-Based Therapy-Prioritising Indigenous and Ethnic Minority Populations in the Global South. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 6:545-558. [PMID: 33898737 PMCID: PMC8058578 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-021-00209-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
An integrative literature review was undertaken as a means of drawing together contemporary perspectives on the outcomes and affordances of videoconference-based therapy. This review was conducted in a way which placed emphasis on the need for mental healthcare strategies which are mindful of the cultural and social needs of indigenous and ethnic minority populations, particularly those situated in the Global South. The review was undertaken using an inverse funnelling approach which sought to prioritise literature on videoconference-based therapy literature which specifically focused on indigenous and ethnic minority populations. A series of general and population specific searches across relevant health databases were supplemented by a simultaneous search of Google Scholar. The PICOS search tool was used in developing the search terms, and data was processed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. A final dataset of 43 articles were included in the review. This body of literature encompassed an international range of studies and included perspectives informed by quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research. Four key themes were identified across the reviewed literature: indigenous and ethnic minority populations, therapeutic relationships, clinical outcomes and technical and logistical considerations. Based on our findings, there is reason to believe that videoconference-based therapy can be made to be just as effective as offline, face-to-face modes of delivery. However, research into the efficacy, impact and cultural implications of this technology in relation to indigenous and ethnic minority populations represents a significant gap within contemporary literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Classen
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Keith Tudor
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Elizabeth Day
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Julia Ioane
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brian Rodgers
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Fernandez E, Woldgabreal Y, Day A, Pham T, Gleich B, Aboujaoude E. Live psychotherapy by video versus in-person: A meta-analysis of efficacy and its relationship to types and targets of treatment. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 28:1535-1549. [PMID: 33826190 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In-person psychotherapy (IPP) has a long and storied past, but technology advances have ushered in a new era of video-delivered psychotherapy (VDP). In this meta-analysis, pre-post changes within VDP were evaluated as were outcome differences between VDP versus IPP or other comparison groups. A literature search identified k = 56 within-group studies (N = 1681 participants) and 47 between-group studies (N = 3564). The pre-post effect size of VDP was large and highly significant, g = +0.99 95% CI [0.67-0.31]. VDP was significantly better in outcome than wait list controls (g = 0.77) but negligible in difference from IPP. Within-groups heterogeneity of effect sizes was reduced after subgrouping studies by treatment target, of which anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (each with k > 5) had effect sizes nearing 1.00. Disaggregating within-groups studies by therapy type, the effect size was 1.34 for CBT and 0.66 for non-CBT. Adjusted for possible publication bias, the overall effect size of VDP within groups was g = 0.54. In conclusion, substantial and significant improvement occurs from pre- to post-phases of VDP, this in turn differing negligibly from IPP treatment outcome. The VDP improvement is most pronounced when CBT is used, and when anxiety, depression, or PTSD are targeted, and it remains strong though attenuated by publication bias. Clinically, therapy is no less efficacious when delivered via videoconferencing than in-person, with efficacy being most pronounced in CBT for affective disorders. Live psychotherapy by video emerges not only as a popular and convenient choice but also one that is now upheld by meta-analytic evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ephrem Fernandez
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, USA
| | | | - Andrew Day
- School of Social & Political Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tuan Pham
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, USA
| | - Bianca Gleich
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, USA
| | - Elias Aboujaoude
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Batastini AB, Paprzycki P, Jones ACT, MacLean N. Are videoconferenced mental and behavioral health services just as good as in-person? A meta-analysis of a fast-growing practice. Clin Psychol Rev 2020; 83:101944. [PMID: 33227560 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2020.101944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The use of videoconferencing technologies (VCT) is on the rise given its potential to close the gap between mental health care need and availability. Yet, little is known about the effectiveness of these services compared to those delivered in-person. A series of meta-analyses were conducted using 57 empirical studies (43 examining intervention outcomes; 14 examining assessment reliability) published over the past two decades that included a variety of populations and clinical settings. Using conventional and HLM3 meta-analytical approaches, VCT consistently produced treatment effects that were largely equivalent to in-person delivered interventions across 281 individual outcomes and 4336 clients, with female clients and those treated in medical facilities tending to respond more favorably to VCT than in-person. Results of an HLM3 model suggested assessments conducted using VCT did not appear to lead to differential decisions compared to those conducted in-person across 83 individual outcomes and 332 clients/examinees. Although aggregate findings support the use of VCT as a viable alternative to in-person service delivery of mental healthcare, several limitations in the current literature base were revealed. Most concerning was the relatively limited number of randomized controlled trials and the inconsistent (and often incomplete) reporting of methodological features and results. Recommendations for reporting the findings of telemental health research are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley B Batastini
- University of Southern Mississippi, USA; University of Mississippi Medical Center Department of Psychiatry, USA.
| | - Peter Paprzycki
- University of Southern Mississippi, USA; Mississippi Center for Clinical and Translational Research, USA; University of Toledo, USA
| | | | - Nina MacLean
- Michigan Department of Health & Human Services - Center for Forensic Psychiatry, USA
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Simpson S, Richardson LK, Pelling N. Introduction to the Special Issue “Telepsychology: Research and Practice”. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ap.12146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Simpson
- School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy, University of South Australia,
| | | | - Nadine Pelling
- School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy, University of South Australia,
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Frueh BC. Solving Mental Healthcare Access Problems in the Twenty‐first Century. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ap.12140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Simpson S, Richardson L, Pietrabissa G, Castelnuovo G, Reid C. Videotherapy and therapeutic alliance in the age of COVID-19. Clin Psychol Psychother 2020; 28:409-421. [PMID: 33037682 PMCID: PMC7675483 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The arrival of the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic has confronted us with a global and unprecedented challenge of community‐wide psychological distress alongside reduced access to therapeutic services in the traditional face‐to‐face format, due to the need to self‐isolate. This previously unimagineable set of circumstances provides a unique opportunity, and indeed an imperative, for videotherapy to fulfil its potential in addressing mental health and well‐being needs from a distance. Historically, the uptake of videotherapy has been hindered by psychotherapist expectations of inferior therapeutic alliance and outcomes, in spite of considerable research evidence to the contrary. Research suggests that videotherapy provides a powerful pathway for clients to experience enhanced opportunities for self‐expression, connection and intimacy. This more neutral therapeutic ‘space’ provides clients with multifarious opportunities for self‐awareness, creative experience and collaboration, with potentially a greater sense of agency over their own experience. This paper explores ways in which videotherapy can lead to a revitalisation of the concept of the therapeutic relationship, in order to meet the challenges associated with COVID‐19. A number of specific considerations for videotherapy adaptations and etiquette in the midst of COVID‐19 are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Simpson
- NHS Lothian, St. John's Hospital, Livingston, UK.,Department of Justice & Society, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lisa Richardson
- North Metropolitan Health Service, MHPHDS, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Giada Pietrabissa
- Psychology Research Laboratory, I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Psychology Research Laboratory, I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Corinne Reid
- Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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