Foundational Knowledge for Telemental Health Counseling: A Timely Guide

This comprehensive text provides mental health providers with the essential knowledge and skills required for ethical and evidence-based practice in telemental health counseling (TMH). Written by Heather Robertson PhD LMHC LPC CASAC CRC NCC ACS BC-TMH, this book is a valuable resource for those engaging in or considering distance modalities to treat clients.

Day-to-Day Application of TMH

The book explains the core functions of TMH and its application across various mental health modalities and settings, providing practical instructions for readers to develop skills that can be applied directly to their counseling interactions.

Empirical and Impartial Views on Distance Counseling

Using the framework of the ACA divisions, ASCA, and CACREP core areas, the text provides an in-depth examination of TMH, presenting a wealth of information based on empirical and impartial views. This enables readers to examine the benefits and risks of distance counseling in various settings, including its history, ethical codes, legal guidelines, and recent research.

Real-World Contexts and Critical Thinking

Case studies and opportunities for self-reflection allow readers to envision distance counseling in real-world contexts, ask critical questions, and form conclusions about its utility in their practice. The “Voices from the Field” feature provides valuable insights from practitioners using distance counseling in different settings, while the “Challenges and Opportunities” features discuss the pros and cons of telemental health practice.

A Companion to Counselor Education Programs

This book is an ideal companion to Counselor Education program courses in Counseling Skills, Pre-Practicum, Advanced Theory, or elective coursework pertaining to distance counseling and telemental health, particularly for mental health, school, family, couple, rehabilitation, and addiction specialists.

Key Features and Digital Access

The book includes critical content pertaining to the COVID-19 crisis and digital access for use on most mobile devices or computers. Key features include:

• Abundant case studies for context and practical application
• Addresses the positive and negative aspects of practicing distance counseling
• Ethical issues in each chapter pertaining to designated core areas or specialty
• “Questions of Practice” to foster critical thinking regarding the use of TMH in specific roles or functions
• “Voices from the Field” with real-world examples focusing on practicing TMH within designated core areas or specialties
• Emphasis on ethical, practical, and logistical TMH practice in all chapters

Written through the lens of a professional counselor and board-certified telemental health provider, this book is an essential resource for mental health professionals looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in telemental health counseling.