In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic telepsychology filled in the gap to enable the continued delivery of mental health services. As the pandemic has eased telepsychology remains a prominent feature in the use of psychological assessment and treatment due to the many benefits it offers to both young people and adults.
1. Convenience and accessibility
Many of us live very busy lives juggling between work, school, travel, and other commitments. Often people find it very difficult to access appointments that suit their busy schedules. Telepsychology eases the burden of taking in account the travel time, parking, multiple driving stops such as school pick up, drop off, drive-home and then drive to after school activities – in the voice of parents this can be tiresome and overwhelming, especially if you have more than one child. Therefore, telepsychology not only increases flexibility and offers a way to adjust to your schedule but ensures that you will have access to support without the extra stresses of travel and waiting in a waiting room.
2. Comfort and interactive
Many people report that one of their favourite benefits of telepsychology is that they can access services in the comfort of their own home, or in some cases their car. This extra comfort enables young people and adults the ability to better connect with their psychologist by sharing their personal environment. In this modern era of psychological treatment, Psychologists often utilise health apps, websites, videos, whiteboards, and other resources in, in-person appointments. Telepsychology eases the toggling of these tasks by increasing the flow of the session as well as keeping it interactive and engaging.
3. Efficacy and dismantling barriers to support
The emerging research in the efficacy of telepsychology outlines that telepsychology services are just as effective as face-to-face psychological services. This appears to explain the widespread development of virtual and online-only psychology practices. In addition to this, telepsychology often assists people in accessing support if they are initially ambivalent or anxious about attending appointments. It is a great steppingstone of speaking to a Psychologist without the pressure of going into the physical practice which can be nerve-racking and intimidating for some.
If you are interested in telepsychology or have any questions on how we can help, please call The Mind Body Practice on (02) 8091 7867 to book an appointment or speak to one of our friendly staff members.
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