Description: Given the current public health emergency (PHE), substance use disorders (SUDs) treatment and recovery support providers have initially used viable alternatives to in-person service delivery. The use of technology through a web-based videoconferencing platform in a synchronous manner (often called telehealth or telemental health) offers one solution. Current research confirms high levels of patient satisfaction with behavioral health services delivered via videoconferencing, along with positive treatment outcomes. Most importantly, the skills and knowledge required for delivering treatment and recovery services through videoconferencing are different than those used for conducting business meetings online. Guidelines, resources, and training exist to help practitioners navigate using videoconferencing platforms to deliver treatment and recovery support services. A review of the research on videoconferencing and its efficacy will be presented, along with access/links to resources and training opportunities to encourage skill development and adherence to privacy/security and confidentiality issues.

Presenters:
Nancy A. Roget, MS, MFT, LADC
Maryellen Evers, LCSW, CAADC, CMFSW