Development of a Telepsychology Program for Parents of Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Objective: Telepsychology represents a promising approach to treatment for individuals and families encountering barriers to traditional face-to-face health care, especially in the challenging context of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Implementing the necessary infrastructure to sustain telepsychology programs within health care institutions requires detailed attention to a variety of domains. Despite the growing use of telepsychology, logistical considerations for the development of such programs are often unclear. Method: In order to clarify considerations regarding the use of telepsychology within partnering health care institutions, we describe the process of developing a telepsychology group intervention with parents of pediatric patients. Results: The development of a telepsychology program for parents at a large children’s health care institution is discussed across four developmental phases: (a) curriculum development, (b) clinical framework, (c) program logistics, and (d) protocol and training infrastructure. Conclusion: Due to the growing need for telepsychological interventions for parents, both practitioners and health care institutions are tasked with collaborating to develop well-designed programs that are aligned with clinical best practices.

Implications for Impact Statement

This article provides a reference guide for the development of a telepsychology group intervention with parents of pediatric patients. Increasing telepsychology interventions is one avenue to promote health equity by increasing greater access to care.