Module 4: Teletherapy

Also known as online therapy, e-therapy, e-counseling, or cyber-counseling

Teletherapy

It bridges the gap between mental health professionals and clients regardless of geographical constraints.

Teletherapy

The first forms of remote therapy happened when Mental health services via telephone began. This is during?

1960s

Cornell University launched “____________” an online Q&A forum discussing mental health. Contributor was anonymous but had a mental health background.

Dear Uncle Ezra (1986)

1. In the Philippines, during the 1950’s, radio shows like “_________” aired nationwide.

2. In the 1980’s we also had “__________”

3. True or False: Both of these programs are hosted by a mental health professional.

1. Dear Kuya Eddie

2. Loving yours, Helen

3. False

Created a public mental health chat → evolved into Psych Central

John Gorohol

John Gorohol created a public mental health chat → evolved into _________

Psych Central

First to offer online therapy with ongoing dialogue via email and chat.

David Sommers

Launched Cyberpsych Counseling, first to use chat rooms exclusively for therapy.

Ed Needham

In 2012, __________ founded by Oren and Roni Frank.

Talkspace

Created Talkspace in 2012 ________

Oren and Roni Frank

first to use chat rooms exclusively for therapy proposed by Ed Needham in 1995

Cyberpsych Counseling

Modes of Teletherapy / Online Counseling

1. A format where the actual time during which counseling takes place. (Synchronous)

2. An asynchronous way of teletherapy

1. Real-time format

2. Time-delayed format

1. Example of real-time format

2. Example of time-delayed

1. Video conferencing, Phone calls, Text-messaging (chat)

2. Email messaging

MODES AND PLATFORMS IN ONLINE COUNSELING

1. A type of text-messaging approach that is asynchronous (not real-time).Suitable for clients who prefer time and space to express themselves. Less pressure to respond immediately. Can be used between other sessions (e.g., video, phone, chat)

2. Synchronous (real-time). Conducted via live messaging on internet-enabled devices. Allows real-time communication without video or phone

3. Provides visual cues important for diagnosis and rapport. Increases accessibility (e.g., for clients with mobility issues). Reduces travel time and allows flexible scheduling. Requires video-enabled devices, stable internet, and tech support

4. More accessible and user-friendly. Fewer technical issues. Acceptable for follow-up assessments

1. Email

2. Chat

3. Video Conferencing

4. Phone Counseling

Counseling services provided through non-face-to-face methods using technology

Distance Counseling

Use of professional accounts and boundaries in online interactions

Professional Virtual Relationship

Column A

1. Counselors are expected to stay informed about technological developments to ensure effective and ethical online practice.

2. Counselors must be familiar with and follow all technical, legal, and ethical requirements of online counseling.

3. Clients are given freedom to select the type of counseling platform they prefer after being informed of the associated risks.

4. Counselors should maintain appropriate professional distance and educate clients about the limitations of virtual communication or the possibility of shifting to face-to-face if online counseling is ineffective

5. Counselors are required to handle, store, and dispose of client information securely according to privacy laws.

6. Counselors must respect the client’s online privacy and avoid sharing confidential information through social media platforms.

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Column B
A. Informed Consent Security
B. General Responsibility
C. Records and Web Maintenance
D. Distance Counseling Relationship
E. Knowledge and Legal Considerations
F. Social Media

1. B.

2. E.

3. A

4. D.

5. C

6. F.

1. A counselor plans to use an online assessment platform for a client who struggles with anxiety. Before proceeding, the counselor checks if the program is secure and fits the client’s needs. This demonstrates adherence to which ethical guideline?
A. Ensuring client computer literacy
B. Using applications appropriate to client needs
C. Encouraging client independence
D. Limiting counselor responsibility to the software provider

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2. Before starting an online session, the counselor explains to the client how the video platform works and what its limitations are. This action reflects the counselor’s duty to:
A. Promote reliance on technology
B. Reduce ethical responsibility due to online settings
C. Ensure clients understand the purpose and function of the technology
D. Avoid discussing technical issues

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3. A counselor stores all digital client files in a password-protected folder and regularly updates encryption software to prevent breaches. This demonstrates:
A. Overprotection of client data
B. Proper maintenance of confidentiality of digital records
C. Delegation of data security to clients
D. Technical overreach beyond ethical scope

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4. A client asks if their online session is being recorded. The counselor confirms that it will be recorded for supervision purposes only and asks the client to sign a consent form. This follows which ethical guideline?
A. Obtain client consent before recording
B. Allow the client to record the session privately
C. Keep all session recordings indefinitely
D. Record sessions for counselor review without informing the client

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5. During a teleassessment, the client’s internet connection becomes unstable, causing delays in a timed test. The counselor pauses the assessment and explains how this may affect results. This action shows compliance with the ethical standard to:
A. Ignore interruptions during testing
B. Continue testing despite disruptions
C. Inform clients about how poor internet may affect performance
D. Adjust scores without notifying the client

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6. A counselor relies heavily on an AI chatbot for therapy responses and allows it to interact directly with clients without supervision. This violates which ethical reminder from the PGCA?
A. The use of technology does not reduce counselor’s ethical responsibilities
B. Clients must be computer literate
C. Applications should be entertaining and engaging
D. Online counseling should be fully automated

1. B.

2. C.

3. B.

4. A.

5. C.

6. A.

1. Ethical Considerations in Online Therapy by _______

True or False

2. Since online therapy often uses secure platforms, therapists no longer need to discuss possible risks with clients.
   

3. The effectiveness of online therapy has been fully established through extensive research and long-term studies.
   

4. A responsible therapist evaluates whether their skills and knowledge are suitable for text-based or digital interventions before conducting sessions.
   

5. Theoretical frameworks developed for face-to-face counseling can always be applied online without any modification.
   

6. Ethical online practice involves adjusting traditional therapeutic approaches to fit the limitations and opportunities of digital communication.
   

1. Craig Chidress

2. F.

3. F.

4. T

5. F

6. T