A consolidated model for telepsychology practice

Abstract

Objective: In this paper, we identify available telepsychology guidelines, understand similarities and differences, and organize the contents into a model of core practice domains pertinent to a variety of applications of telepsychology practice. Method: A scoping review of current telepsychology guidelines was conducted to identify, organize, and distill available telepsychology guidelines (Arksey & O'Malley, 2005, Int J Soc Res Methodol, 8, 19–32). Results: We identified overlap among five sets of telepsychology guidelines currently available and presented a consolidated model including nine practice domains influenced by practice setting and modality. Conclusions: Telepsychology has the potential to address current issues in availability, accessibility, acceptability, anonymity, and affordability of mental health services but establishing or engaging in telepsychology practice has been daunting for many practitioners. Telepsychologists can disseminate applications of this model in different settings and with different modalities and this practice model can inform future development of competencies.