As a speech-language pathologist dedicated to creating excellent outcomes for children, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest research and how it can be applied to your practice. A recent study titled "Practitioner use of and attitudes towards videoconferencing for the delivery of evidence-based telemental health interventions: A mixed methods study" offers valuable insights that can help you enhance your online therapy skills.
The study surveyed 111 mental health practitioners and conducted in-depth interviews with 20 of them to explore their use of and attitudes towards videoconferencing for delivering evidence-based interventions (EBIs). Here are some key takeaways and practical tips from the research that you can implement to improve your online therapy practice:
1. Embrace Early Training and Knowledge Sharing
The study found that practitioners who received early training in videoconferencing and engaged in knowledge-sharing activities were more likely to use video conferencing effectively. Consider the following steps:
- Participate in webinars and online courses focused on teletherapy.
- Join professional online communities to share experiences and learn from peers.
- Stay updated with the latest guidelines and best practices in telemental health.
2. Tailor Interventions for Online Delivery
One of the most frequently used adaptations in the study was "Tailoring," which involves making minor changes to the intervention to make it more suitable for online delivery. Here are some ways to tailor your interventions:
- Use digital tools and resources to engage children, such as interactive games and apps.
- Adjust the session structure to accommodate the online format, such as shorter, more frequent sessions.
- Incorporate visual aids and multimedia elements to enhance understanding and engagement.
3. Address Barriers to Implementation
The study identified several barriers to the feasibility of implementing EBIs via videoconferencing, including technological issues and administrative challenges. To overcome these barriers, consider the following strategies:
- Ensure both you and your clients have access to reliable internet and necessary equipment.
- Provide clear instructions and troubleshoot common technical issues before sessions.
- Streamline administrative processes, such as consent forms and billing, to make them compatible with online delivery.
4. Leverage the Benefits of Videoconferencing
Practitioners in the study highlighted several advantages of using videoconferencing for EBIs, such as increased accessibility for clients in remote areas and the ability to maintain therapeutic rapport. Here's how you can leverage these benefits:
- Offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate clients' needs.
- Utilize video conferencing features, such as screen sharing and breakout rooms, to enhance the therapy experience.
- Build rapport by maintaining eye contact, using active listening skills, and creating a comfortable online environment.
Encouraging Further Research
The study underscores the importance of ongoing research to explore the nuances of delivering EBIs via videoconferencing. As practitioners, we should remain curious and open to new findings that can further enhance our practice. By staying informed and adaptable, we can continue to provide high-quality, effective therapy to our clients, regardless of the delivery method.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Practitioner use of and attitudes towards videoconferencing for the delivery of evidence-based telemental health interventions: A mixed methods study.
