Cultural and Practical Implications for Psychiatric Telehealth Services: A Response to COVID-19

Abstract

In the midst of the current COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth or the remote delivery of mental health services via videoconferencing technology is experiencing exponential growth in utilization. Telehealth services provide mental healthcare providers the ability to deliver timely assessments, facilitate and leverage scarce resources, and maintain client connections in a time where social distancing is endorsed. The delivery of culturally appropriate psychiatric telehealth services is particularly relevant for diverse ethnic populations along with best practices to promote client-provider engagement and client satisfaction. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of psychiatric telehealth services and its functions and deliver insights into culturally appropriate practice strategies.