Data & Society: Therapeutic Labor, Teletherapy, and the Platformization of Mental Health Care
More people than ever are accessing psychotherapy and counseling remotely in the United States, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Teletherapy has allowed clients and therapists to connect across physical distance, often to the benefit of those seeking mental health support. This report examines the changing realities for mental health professionals in the US as therapeutic labor is restructured by teletherapy services and digital platforms. Focusing on providers who practice teletherapy and work for digital platforms, the report examines the fundamental tensions that emerge when a profession with clinical expertise, licensing, and training standards meets virtual mediation, the dynamics of platformization, machine learning augmentation, productivity incentives, and algorithmic management.
Loading...
Reload document 
Open in new tab