Telepsychology and the COVID-19 pandemic: the experiences of psychologists in South Africa
Lynne Goldschmidt, Malose Langa, Bafana Masilela, Lesego M Ndhlovu, Buyisile Mncina, Boikhutso Maubane, Khanyisile Bujela
Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has drawn renewed attention to telepsychology. This study reports on the experiences of psychologists in response to the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic pertaining to the provision, application, and accessibility of telepsychology services in the South African context. The findings highlight the direct and indirect implications of the pandemic and its impact on both practitioners and clients. The core themes comprise an increase in mental health care needs, challenges pertaining to therapeutic modalities in response to crises, as well as contextual considerations. The latter include barriers to telepsychology, such as the costs of data, as well as limitations to confidentiality and privacy.