Psychiatric Services: Psychotherapy Disruption Before and After the Transition to Virtual Mental Health Care Induced by the COVID-19 Pandemic

Psychiatric Services: Psychotherapy Disruption Before and After the Transition to Virtual Mental Health Care Induced by the COVID-19 Pandemic

According to research published in Psychiatric Services, journal of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), the rapid transition to virtual care that occurred with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in better continuity of psychotherapy visits compared to prior to the pandemic when almost all visits were in-person. Individuals with mental health conditions often miss health care appointments, and lapses in treatment can hinder overall improvement in mental health symptoms. Efforts to improve engagement in care are essential to promoting overall wellness among those receiving care. Results support the continued availability of virtual psychotherapy when appropriate infrastructure is in place. See the APA press release here.