Telehealth Psychology Works!

25th November 2023

Have you thought about seeing a psychologist through telehealth?  

Covid lockdown forced many Australians to utilise telehealth options for psychological sessions. Despite consumers initial reservations about telehealth many consumers have reported enjoying it. Lockdowns have ended, yet telehealth sessions are continuing, with many consumers and therapists preferring this mode of therapy.

You will be glad to know that current research has demonstrated no significant difference in treatment outcomes between telehealth and face-to-face. When telehealth is used by an experienced clinician, it has shown to be just as effective in treating a range of mental health symptoms such as Depression, Anxiety, trauma, Bipolar and Schizophrenia.

The Therapeutic alliance (relationship between the therapist and consumer) is one of the main predictor’s of successful psychological treatment. Many consumers and therapists report being able to develop this healthy working relationship well via telehealth, especially when the clinician approaches this technology positively and makes small changes to contribute to its success.  

Clinicians who are experienced in telehealth adapt by making small changes to their therapy. Clinicians will:

-          Attune more into the cues that are present during telehealth e.g. focusing on facial expressions and verbal cues as opposed to body language

-          Summarise often and invite clarification to ensure no information is lost in translation

-          Utilise humour to soften impacts of small speedbumps such as sound pauses or other technical difficulties.

Benefits of telehealth can include:

-          Reduced wait times

-          Greater access (especially in rural and remote areas, people with mobility difficulties)

-          Greater convenience to consumer and therapist (easier to have appointments outside work hours and over the weekend)

-          Reduced cost at times

-          Comfort being in your own home

-          Can feel more private and confidential

-          Snuggling up to your pets while we chat

Concerns of telehealth can include:

-          Connection issues

-          You need to ensure a private space at home

-          Some non-verbal language, such as body language, may be lost

If you would like to give telehealth a try, please get in contact with psychologist, Christina Rodgers to give it a try.