The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to telehealth in youth care, posing both challenges and opportunities for professionals and clients alike. A recent study titled "Youth care in time of COVID-19: Experiences of professionals and adolescent clients with telehealth" offers valuable insights into how this transition was managed and what can be learned for future practice.
Key Findings and Recommendations
1. Enhanced Flexibility and Accessibility
One of the standout benefits of telehealth during the pandemic was the increased flexibility it offered. Professionals found it easier to include multiple family members in sessions, even those who couldn't attend in person. Adolescents appreciated the reduced travel time and the comfort of receiving care from their own homes.
2. Technical Challenges and Solutions
However, technical difficulties such as poor internet connections and the complexity of accessing secure platforms were significant barriers. To mitigate these issues, it is crucial to invest in reliable hardware and user-friendly software. Additionally, both professionals and clients should be well-prepared and informed about online etiquettes and privacy measures.
3. Building and Maintaining Therapeutic Alliances
Establishing a strong therapeutic alliance was more challenging online, especially for new clients. Professionals noted that the lack of physical presence and difficulties in interpreting non-verbal cues affected the quality of interactions. To overcome these hurdles, professionals should adopt more animated gestures and regularly check in with clients to ensure mutual understanding.
4. Adaptation of Treatment Methods
While some treatments, like psychoeducation and highly protocolled therapies, transitioned smoothly to online formats, others required significant adaptation. Professionals emphasized the need for creativity and flexibility in modifying treatment plans to suit the online environment. This includes focusing more on cognitive aspects and using digital tools effectively.
5. Perceived Effectiveness and Client Preferences
The perceived effectiveness of telehealth varied widely among both professionals and adolescents. While some found it equally or more effective than in-person sessions, others felt it was less effective, particularly for complex issues. Interestingly, most adolescents preferred in-person sessions but were open to a blended approach that combines online and in-person care.
Future Directions
The study highlights the need for further research and training in telehealth practices. Educational institutions should incorporate telehealth skills into their curricula to prepare future professionals. Moreover, ongoing research should focus on identifying which telehealth methods are most effective for different client populations.
For a more detailed understanding of the study and its findings, we encourage you to read the original research paper: Youth care in time of COVID-19: Experiences of professionals and adolescent clients with telehealth.
