The goal of the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) Clinical Trials Network/Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC) webinar series is to help scholars and clinicians in the addiction field stay abreast of cutting-edge science.
The uptake in the use of telebehavioral services since the start of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) has been swift and is significantly transforming how behavioral health services are delivered. Mental health and SUD treatment services provided virtually are effective and serve as viable alternatives to in-person service delivery. Patients confirm high levels of satisfaction with telebehavioral health, while practitioners report more reluctance. Nonetheless, training has been shown to build practitioners’ skills, confidence, and competency. Using technology to facilitate clinical or recovery support sessions requires clinicians and peer support specialists to simulate real-time experiences (Hilty, 2002) that promote a therapeutic alliance (treatment) or connection (peer support). However, virtual service delivery requires some careful modification of the clinicians’ or peer support specialists’ skills to ensure engagement occurs and positive working relationships are developed.
This webinar, presented by Nancy A. Roget, MS, MFT, LADC and Maryellen Evers, LCSW, CAADAC, CMFSW, included a brief review of: telebehavioral health research and its efficacy, strategies that promote skill development, how to create a virtual presence, resources related to guidelines and tips, and comments regarding hybrid service delivery.
Co-sponsored by the Northwest and Pacific Southwest ATTCs and the Western States Node of the NIDA Clinical Trials Network.
