Effectiveness of Teletherapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of and client satisfaction with teletherapy services provided during the COVID-19 pandemic. A 13-item electronic survey was utilized to measure participant use of and satisfaction with teletherapy. The frequency of symptoms assessed was consistently higher during the COVID-19 time frame than pre-COVID-19. Most respondents indicated that their symptoms worsened or new symptoms arose during the COVID-19 time frame. Additionally, 39.6% of respondents indicated an increase in teletherapy use. A significant model was found that predicted a collective effect for satisfaction with teletherapy counseling. Reported increases in symptomology additionally indicated a greater need for accessible care during the pandemic. This study’s findings support a continuation of teletherapy use in response to the COVID-19 pandemic due to reported increases in use of and satisfaction with teletherapy services.