Chapter 5 - Telehealth Technologies in Evidence-Based Psychotherapy

Abstract

Interest in using technology to improve access to mental health services has grown rapidly over the past decade. One option for improving access is through the use of video telecommunication, or telehealth, technologies in treatment. This chapter will first provide a review of the literature on the use of telehealth technologies to deliver evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs), particularly highlighting recent advances that have taken place regarding the use of telehealth and related technology in the treatment of anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive symptoms, and suicidality, as well as eating disorders. Second, practice recommendations will be presented for mental health providers seeking to use telehealth technologies, as well as a discussion of future directions for telehealth practices. Overall, telehealth practices are becoming widespread in the delivery of evidence-based psychotherapy, and research supports the conclusion that telehealth can be accepted as nearly equivalent in effectiveness to traditional in-person treatment. However, it is important that standard logistical and clinical adjustments are implemented consistently when utilizing these technologies in clinical practice, to ensure that treatment effectiveness is maintained. Furthermore, as Internet and mobile technologies continue to rapidly evolve in accessibility, capability, and affordability, it is crucial that research begin to examine when, in what settings, and for whom, telehealth services are most warranted.