Therapist-Reported Differences between Teletherapy via Phone and via Videoconferencing

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Telehealth
• Mental Health Services

Background:

• Teletherapy offers multiple formats, including phone and videoconferencing.
• Limited research exists on therapist experiences comparing these teletherapy modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare therapist attitudes, professional self-doubt, and therapeutic relationship experiences between phone and videoconferencing teletherapy.
• To investigate the impact of technology familiarity on therapist perceptions in teletherapy.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was administered to 117 therapists.
• Participants had experience with both phone and videoconferencing teletherapy sessions.

Main Results:

• Therapist attitudes and perceptions of the therapeutic relationship were comparable across phone and videoconferencing.
• Therapists reported higher levels of professional self-doubt during videoconferencing sessions.
• Prior experience with phone teletherapy correlated with more positive perceptions of phone sessions.

Conclusions:

• Familiarity with teletherapy technology, particularly videoconferencing, significantly influences therapist confidence and attitudes.
• Training and practice with new teletherapy technologies are crucial for enhancing therapist comfort and efficacy.
• While modalities may differ, the therapeutic relationship can be maintained, but therapist self-efficacy requires attention.