The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the delivery of mental health services, pushing providers to adapt to new therapeutic settings. According to the research article titled "COVID-19 pandemic impact on the therapeutic setting in Mental Health Services," the shift from face-to-face to online therapy has been a significant adjustment for both therapists and patients. This blog will explore key findings from the study and offer practical insights for practitioners aiming to improve their skills and outcomes through data-driven decisions.
Key Findings from the Study
The study, conducted via an anonymous web-based survey, gathered responses from 219 mental health providers in Genoa, Italy. The survey aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on therapeutic settings. Here are some notable findings:
- Psychologists reported a higher availability of video call assistance (92.3%) compared to psychiatrists (54.5%) and psychotherapists (69.4%).
- Psychiatrists expressed the lowest degree of satisfaction with the telematic approach (42.4%), while psychologists (74%) and psychotherapists (65.3%) were more open to its continued use.
- Patients showed mixed reactions, with 57% appreciating the online setting for its continuity of care, while 43.9% preferred returning to face-to-face sessions.
- Therapists reported various challenges, including difficulty in communication (29.9%) and concentration (42.9% among psychotherapists).
Practical Insights for Practitioners
Given these findings, here are some practical steps that mental health practitioners can take to enhance their online therapy sessions:
1. Embrace Technology
The study highlights the importance of video call assistance in maintaining continuity of care. Investing in reliable and user-friendly technology can make a significant difference in the therapeutic experience for both practitioners and patients.
2. Address Privacy Concerns
Privacy was a major concern for both therapists and patients. Ensure that both parties have a private, secure space for sessions. Use encrypted communication platforms to protect sensitive information.
3. Enhance Communication Skills
Online therapy can sometimes hinder non-verbal communication. Practitioners should focus on enhancing their verbal communication skills and using techniques like reflective listening to ensure that patients feel heard and understood.
4. Flexibility in Therapeutic Approaches
The pandemic has shown the need for flexibility in therapeutic settings. Practitioners should be open to adapting their methods to suit the online environment while maintaining the core principles of their therapeutic approach.
5. Continuous Professional Development
Ongoing training and professional development are crucial. Engaging in workshops and courses on online therapy can equip practitioners with the skills needed to navigate this new landscape effectively.
Encouraging Further Research
The study underscores the need for further research to understand the long-term implications of online therapy. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by participating in studies, sharing their experiences, and staying updated with the latest research.To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
COVID-19 pandemic impact on the therapeutic setting in Mental Health Services 
