EXPERIENCE OF RECEIVING PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR PERSONALITY DISORDER VIA TELEHEALTH DURING THE FIRST WAVE OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

ABSTRACT

Background: Social distancing restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic led to the adoption of telehealth in place of services previously provided in-person. Specialised psychotherapy is the primary evidence-based treatment for people diagnosed with personality disorder. Objective: To investigate the perceptions of clients of a specialist personality disorder clinic receiving psychotherapy via telehealth (video-conference and/or phone). Methods: An online survey was conducted during the first round of social restrictions (March-May 2020). Clients receiving psychotherapy treatment prior to the restrictions were invited to participate (n = 77). Findings: Thirty-seven clients completed the survey (48% response rate). Most participants were female (86.5%) and aged younger than 38 years (64.8%). When asked about their transition from in-person to telehealth during the pandemic, about half (n = 18 of 35, 51.4%) had few or no technical issues. Most participants preferred not having the stress of travelling (57.1%) and some felt more relaxed and able to talk more freely during telehealth sessions (28.6%). However, some (34.3%) found it more challenging to stay engaged in treatment when their main communication was via telehealth, with telehealth not working as well as in-person treatment. Almost half of the participants (48.6%) wanted to retain the option of receiving psychological treatment via telehealth when restrictions were lifted. While positive aspects of telehealth services were highlighted, there were some significant shortcomings. Conclusion: The overall perception of clients diagnosed with personality disorder was that delivery of psychotherapy via telehealth was generally therapeutic, was valued by participants and did not lead to harmful outcomes.