Evaluation of Telepsychology Practices During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Satisfaction of Clients and Psychotherapists

This study aimed to evaluate satisfaction with telepsychology (TP) practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.While previous studies in the literature have examined TP practices during this period, it is important to address the process simultaneously from the perspectives of clients and psychotherapists.Accordingly, TP applications conducted as part of the Clinical Practice courses in Aydn Adnan Menderes University clinical psychology Graduate Programs were evaluated retrospectively.The sample consisted of 62 clients aged 18-65 years and 24 clinical psychology graduate students aged 24-38 years who acted as psychotherapists.In this study, client satisfaction was measured using the Telepsychology Satisfaction Questionnaire, and psychotherapist satisfaction was measured using the Telepsychology Therapist Satisfaction Questionnaire.Client satisfaction was measured by considering aspects of the TP service related to information, technology, privacy/confidentiality, goal accessibility, preferences, and future attitudes.Psychotherapist satisfaction was evaluated on the basis of their knowledge of the TP service, technological infrastructure, attitudes toward TP, and a comparison of TP with face-to-face psychotherapy.The findings showed that client satisfaction was high, with clients expressing a preference for TP in the future.Similarly, therapists reported high satisfaction with the process and indicated that they were able to deliver TP as effectively as face-to-face services.In conclusion, TP practices implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic are cost-effective, efficient, practical, and preferred mental health practices for clients and psychotherapists.