Telepsychology
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Telepsychology is the use of telemedicine within the practice of psychotherapy, wherein a medical professional uses online tools to assist patients.[1][2] Some tools may include, but are not limited to: Skype, email, online chatting, Oovoo, text-messaging, phone call, or using an app for the smart phone. Not only is telepsychology cost-effective, it also helps connect medical professionals to underserved patients while being more comforting and convenient to both parties.[3]
Guidelines
There are guidelines and standards that must be met for a medical professional to successfully and effectively utilize their tools to aid their patients. ACPRO also has a model of standards for how one can conduct an adequate telepsychology service delivery.[4]
Evidence
Though it is understandable that critics will argue that telepsychology practices are not as effective as in-person practices, but there's enough evidence to suggest otherwise. One notable study conducted by APA Psych Net shows that there are no significant differences between telepsychology and in-person practices.[5]
See also
References
- ^ "Mental Health Academy - Telepsychology And Telehealth" (PDF). mentalhealthacademy.com.au.
- ^ "What are Telehealth and Telepsychology?". apa.org. Retrieved 2017-08-08.
- ^ "'Telepsychology' Brings Virtual Mental Health Care To The Underserved". Texas A&M Today. Retrieved 2017-08-08.
- ^ "ACPRO Telepsychology Service Delivery" (PDF). acpro-aocrp.ca. 7 August 2017. Retrieved 7 August 2017.
- ^ "PsycNET". psycnet.apa.org. Retrieved 2017-08-08.