Key Findings and Practical Applications
Based on the study, here are some essential points and how they can be applied to improve outcomes for children receiving online therapy:
1. Enhancing Access to Care
V-TMH significantly improves access to mental health services for children, especially those in rural or underserved areas. This can be particularly beneficial for children with mobility issues or those facing transportation challenges. Practitioners should leverage V-TMH to reach a broader demographic, ensuring that more children receive the therapy they need.
2. Maintaining Therapeutic Alliance
Despite initial concerns, studies indicate high satisfaction and strong therapeutic alliances in V-TMH settings. To maintain this, SLPs should focus on creating engaging and interactive sessions. Utilizing features like virtual games or interactive whiteboards can make sessions more appealing to children.
3. Ethical Considerations
Ensuring patient safety and privacy is paramount. The study emphasizes the need for HIPAA-compliant platforms and secure data handling. Practitioners should educate themselves and their clients about the importance of confidentiality and the measures in place to protect it.
4. Adapting Assessment Techniques
Conducting assessments and psychological testing via V-TMH presents unique challenges. SLPs should consider adapting their methods to suit the online environment. For instance, using digital tools designed for cognitive assessments can provide reliable results comparable to in-person evaluations.
5. Training and Education
The rapid shift to V-TMH underscores the need for specialized training. SLPs should seek out professional development opportunities focused on telehealth technologies and best practices. This will ensure they are well-equipped to handle the unique demands of online therapy.
Future Directions
The expansion of V-TMH services is likely to continue beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. For practitioners, this means staying informed about emerging technologies and evolving best practices. Engaging in ongoing research and professional development will be crucial for delivering effective and ethical care.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Videoconferencing-Based Telemental Health: Important Questions for the COVID-19 Era From Clinical and Patient-Centered Perspectives
