Videoconferencing Psychotherapy in the Public Sector: Synthesis and Model for Implementation

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Services
• Health Informatics
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP) adoption is increasing in private and military settings.
• Public sector implementation of VCP is crucial for reaching vulnerable populations.
• Public sector organizations face unique challenges in adopting VCP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an implementation model for introducing VCP into public sector organizations.
• To provide practical guidelines for planning and executing VCP service trials.
• To assess the effectiveness of VCP within public sector settings.

Main Methods:

• An iterative search strategy synthesized research from mental health, IT, and organizational psychology.
• Analysis of previous VCP implementation studies, focusing on military and public sector settings.
• Identification of barriers, facilitators, and lessons learned from prior VCP implementations.

Main Results:

• A 6-phase model for VCP integration into large organizations was developed.
• The model incorporates change management principles for technology integration.
• Practical, measurable steps are outlined, addressing organizational barriers and enhancing facilitators.

Conclusions:

• The proposed model is resource-intensive but comprehensive.
• It acknowledges the specific needs and challenges of large public sector organizations.
• The model provides a structured approach to VCP implementation in these settings.