Up-to-date review of psychotherapy via videoconference: implications and recommendations for the RANZCP Psychotherapy Written Case during the COVID-19 pandemic. (October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chherawala, Nabil; Gill, Shane
• Is Part Of: Australasian psychiatry. Volume 28:Number 5(2020:Oct.)
• Page Start: 517
• Page End: 520
• Publication Date: 2020-10
• Subjects: videoconference -- telepsychiatry -- psychotherapy -- psychiatry training -- COVID-19; Psychiatry -- Australasia -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1177/1039856220939495
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1039-8562

Abstract

Objective: There has been a surge in videoconferencing technology use in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. RANZCP registrars engaged in the Psychotherapy Written Case are met with new challenges in navigating the psychodynamic processes that can occur when transitioning from in-person to videoconferencing psychotherapy. There is also a myriad of videoconferencing platforms to choose from. Conclusion: It has become necessary to adapt our clinical practice to the current COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing regulations. The literature recognises videoconferencing psychotherapy as a valid therapeutic medium which can facilitate healthy psychological maturation, but there are theoretical drawbacks. A transition to videoconferencing psychotherapy requires patient agreeability, consistency and reflection upon patient–therapist dynamics; this will aide in the Psychotherapy Written Case submission. Registrars must balance usability, digital security and patient preferences when choosing videoconferencing platforms.