The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth platforms, including videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP). This shift has brought to light several challenges and opportunities for enhancing therapeutic processes. The study "Enhancing Therapeutic Processes in Videoconferencing Psychotherapy: Interview Study of Psychologists’ Technological Perspective" provides valuable insights into how technological features can improve VCP outcomes. Here, we summarize key findings and practical recommendations for practitioners to enhance their VCP skills.
Key Findings from the Study
The study interviewed 17 psychologists from various countries, exploring their experiences with VCP and identifying technological features that could enhance therapeutic work. The analysis resulted in nine themes and 19 subthemes, highlighting the need for more technical control to facilitate therapeutic processes. Key findings include:
- Psychologists' attitude towards VCP is evolving, with a shift from focusing on limitations to exploring new possibilities.
- Structured psychotherapy guidelines are essential for managing the unpredictability of VCP.
- Building trust before the first session, such as through a phone call, can enhance the initial VCP experience.
- Technological features like eye contact functionality, emergency call functionality, screen control functionality, interactive interfaces with other apps, and zooming in and out functionality can significantly enhance the therapeutic process.
Technological Features to Enhance VCP
Based on the study's findings, the following technological features are recommended to improve VCP outcomes:
- Eye Contact Functionality: Enhancing eye contact can improve trust and emotional connection, making sessions more effective.
- Emergency Call Functionality: This feature can provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies, ensuring patient safety.
- Screen Control Functionality: Allows psychologists to manage the patient's screen, reducing distractions and maintaining focus.
- Interactive Interface with Other Apps: Facilitates seamless integration of other tools and resources, enhancing the therapy experience.
- Zooming In and Out Functionality: Helps capture micro-expressions and body language, providing better insights into the patient's emotional state.
Practical Recommendations for Practitioners
To implement these findings and enhance your VCP practice, consider the following recommendations:
- Adopt a positive attitude towards VCP, focusing on its unique opportunities rather than its limitations.
- Develop structured guidelines for your VCP sessions to manage unpredictability and maintain control.
- Build trust with your patients before the first VCP session through introductory phone calls or other means.
- Advocate for and utilize technological features that enhance eye contact, ensure safety, control the screen, and integrate other tools.
- Continuously seek feedback from your patients to refine your approach and address any challenges they face.
By integrating these technological features and adopting these recommendations, practitioners can significantly enhance their VCP practice, leading to better therapeutic outcomes for their patients.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Enhancing Therapeutic Processes in Videoconferencing Psychotherapy: Interview Study of Psychologists’ Technological Perspective.
