Telepsychology for families during the COVID-19 pandemic: an experience with telepsychotherapy and telepsychoeducation

Abstract

Introduction: In times of COVID-19 pandemic, telepsychology is an appropriate option that allows both to maintain and expand the supply of psychological services. Telepsychology is the use of information and communication technologies (video calling, email etc.) to provide psychological services (telepsychotherapy, telecounseling etc.) and it has become fundamental due the increase and/or worsening of mental health problems during the pandemic. Objective: Reporting an ongoing experience in telepsychology for families that involves the use of telepsychotherapy and telepsychoeducation. Experience Report: The report was organized based on 10 guidelines based on guiding principles proposed by national and international reference institutions. Two kinds of activities are being offered: preventive telepsychoeducation and family telepsychotherapy. Telepsychotherapy is being made available in brief format and the families served are mainly from the city of the institution responsible for the project. Telepsychoeducation has been done mainly via booklets and podcasts, with themes related to the focus of the project (family) and issues that contribute to a functional coping with consequences of COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Although it is not a random clinical trial and just a few families have been attended by now, it seems that the telepsychotherapeutic process has been effective. Those served by the project have actively participated, the therapeutic bond has been established and help relations has been built. Positive feedbacks have been received related to achievement of set therapeutic goals. Conclusion: Telepsychology is especially relevant in this historic moment when social distance is essential to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic and it will continue to be helpful after this health crisis because it is particularly useful for, for example, people living in remote areas or those with limited mobility. Besides, it is likely that humanity will face other pandemics and a climate crisis that, again, will require social distance and/or will not allow usual displacements.