Demographic, Organizational, and Clinical Practice Predictors of U.S. Psychologists' Use of Telepsychology.

Although many people use videoconferencing technology to eliminate distance concerns as they conduct personal and professional activities, a large majority of psychologists have never used telepsychology. This is a barrier to mental health services for millions of people needing help but are limited by time or distance from traditional in-person therapy. The purpose of this study was to identify demographic, organizational, and clinical statistical predictors of psychologists' use of telepsychology in their clinical practice. The sample consisted of 1,791 psychologists currently practicing psychotherapy, representing all 50 U.S. states, and averaging more than 26 years in practice. Results suggested that psychologists were much more likely to use telepsychology if they practiced in organizations where policies supporting telepsychology exist, more likely if they had received telepsychology training, and less likely if they were practicing in rural areas. Psychologists were more likely to use telepsychology if they practiced in Veterans Affairs Medical Centers or within an individual or group practice. Use of telepsychology was higher for psychologists focusing on sports performance and life coaching, as well as lower for psychologists providing testing and evaluation and when treating grief. The implications for psychologists and the settings they practice within are considered. Organizations interested in encouraging telepsychology use should adopt policies supporting the use of telepsychology and provide adequate training to do so. Public Significance Statement: Telepsychology can help psychologists reach underserved communities, but only 21% of psychologists in the current study reported using telepsychology within their practice. Results of the study suggest that organizations promoting telepsychology use should craft specific policies supporting its use and provide psychologists adequate training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]