Practitioner Perspectives on Telehealth and In-Person Services for U.S. Military Veterans

This study examines the relative effectiveness of telehealth compared to conventional in-person therapy among U.S. military veterans aged 35-45 who suffer from severe mental health issues. The recent substantial increase in the use of telehealth services occurred when providers for veterans needed to reassess and refine methods of delivering mental healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study employs a qualitative approach and phenomenological research design to gather and analyze the insights of mental health clinicians who serve this veteran demographic, focusing on the Detroit, Michigan area. Interviews with ten clinicians revealed detailed perspectives on the benefits and limitations of telehealth and traditional therapy. The research identified four key themes through thematic analysis, including accessibility, engagement, flexibility and adaptability, and the nature of therapeutic relationships. Results indicate that telehealth significantly improves access to care and offers a less intimidating environment for veterans, potentially better accommodating those with anxiety disorders. However, the data also underscores the irreplaceable value of face-to-face therapy in building strong therapeutic relationships. The findings support a blended approach that integrates the advantages of both telehealth and traditional therapy to meet the diverse needs of veterans. This study contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing mental health services through innovative practices, emphasizing the need for a flexible, veteran-centric care model that effectively integrates technological advancements with established therapeutic modalities.