Telepsychology and videoconferencing: Issues, opportunities and guidelines for psychologists

Abstract

Telehealth has been around for a long time. Currently, its application is dominated by mental health and predominantly by the discipline of psychiatry. Telepsychology refers to the use of technology-assisted means to provide psychological services. One such technological approach, videoconferencing, enables the provision of psychological services via a live, interactive two-way video – audio system. Videoconferencing is used extensively in Australia but the discipline of psychology is yet to fully embrace the technology. A possible explanation for this is the lack of information and discussion specific to the discipline of psychology as to the effectiveness of the technology and issues relating to its use for provision of psychological services. This paper attempts to provide such information relevant to psychologists as well as a discussion of some of the practical considerations in its use. Specifically, practical guidelines are offered that relate to provision of education and training via videoconferencing, but many of the comments and guidelines equally apply to other psychological services provided via videoconferencing.