Telemental Health Training in Counselor Education: A Qualitative Research Study

Authors

Jocelyn K. Novella, Fairfield UniversityFollow
Thomas J. Debicella, Sacred Heart UniversityFollow
Lucy EdwardsFollow
Carol (Lisi) EwertFollow
Dilani Perera, Fairfield UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Telemental health training, COVID-19, counselor education, counselors-in-training, distance counseling

Subject Area

Counselor Education

Abstract

Telemental health training in counselor education is uncommon, mostly because telemental health delivery of counseling has been limited. However, the COVID-19 pandemic required a sudden pivot to technology in order to continue to provide services to clients. Counselors-in-Training also had to pivot to telemental health field experiences, most without intentional training for such in their master’s programs. This grounded theory qualitative study describes the lived experiences of seven students in their Practicum course during this period in a master’s-level clinical mental health counseling program. Particular themes that emerged were concerns about lack of training in various areas, including crisis intervention/risk assessment online, and positive perceptions of creativity and accessibility.

Recommended Citation

Novella, J. K., Debicella, T. J., Edwards, L., Ewert, C., & Perera, D. (2023). Telemental Health Training in Counselor Education: A Qualitative Research Study. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 17(5). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/jcps/vol17/iss5/3