The Role of Tele-Mental Health in Therapy for Couples in Long-Distance Relationships

Abstract

The rates of long distance romantic relationships are increasing, and it is important to realize that many of these couples may face unique challenges compared with geographically close couples. However, because of geographical separation, couples in long distance relationships may not have access to therapy services that could benefit their relationships. Therefore, therapists need to make accommodations for working with them. One way of supporting this population is through videoconferencing. Videoconference services are programs that allow people in different places to talk to each other in real time. One of the more popular videoconferencing services is Skype. This article will explore the use of Skype in therapy with couples in long distance relationships. The current state of the literature on Internet based psychotherapeutic interventions and the ethical considerations associated with this type of treatment will be addressed. Drawing on a clinical case study, implications of Skype therapy for long distance relationships will be discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• long-distance relationships
• tele-mental health
• online therapy
• Internet-based interventions
• Internet-based psychotherapeutic interventions
• e-therapy

Notes

1. Other videoconferencing programs may have a similar feature. The authors refer to Skype's picture-in-picture set-up because of familiarity and ease of reference.