Pioneering Remote Consultations

Beginning 2010, we began to adopt the technology for the provision of therapy and consultations, ensuring confidentiality and reliability. This was met with stiff resistance by fellows and many “logical” arguments levied against its use. Insurance companies initially refused to fund such sessions. Then the NHS began using it as a cost-saving measure. When COVID-19 struck the scrabbling began. Suddenly, everyone was racing to figure out how to do online consultations. Few have gone back to the traditional approach. Others, discovering they could work from anywhere, have done just that, becoming Nomadic Psychologists.

In 2015 Dr van Scoyoc presented a paper at the BPS annual Conference addressing, in detail, the techniques and considerations.

Susan has been involved in the development and application of standards for the training and practice of British psychologists and in the creation of European Federation of Psychologist Association training requirements for psychologists specialising in psychotherapy. Whilst this work is of importance in ensuring minimum standards it has raised important questions for the author:

• How relevant are national standards in the internet age?
• How do psychologists offer services across international boundaries?
• What will this mean for international clients when considering how to choose an appropriately qualified psychologist?

Susan explored her use of videoconferencing and web-based means of communication to participate in online training and to provide supervision and therapeutic services across national borders.

National organisations will need to address the increasing use of technology by psychologists and clients and consider the increasing need to have international recognition of qualifications and experience.