In episode 2, Dr. Shelley Appleton and Dr. Tania McMahon, clinical psychologists, discuss the application of digital interventions with clients and troubleshoot common challenges.

What digital programs are useful?

Digital interventions can maximize the impact of face-to-face or telehealth psychotherapy by reinforcing skills, providing improved access to psychoeducation, coping skills, and crisis interventions. When selecting an intervention, it is important to ensure that the program has evidence or is based on an evidence-based approach. Learn about the National Safety Standards. Look for regularly updated sites that are user-friendly and engaging. The eMHPrac webinar Evaluating the Quality of Digital Mental Health Resources can guide you through the evaluation and selection process with digital mental health resources.

How do I start using digital interventions with clients?

The Head to Health and eMHPracwebsites provide guidance on government-funded, evidence-based digital resources. Familiarize yourself with the structure of different digital interventions (apps, online programs, forums, etc) and how they might be integrated into your current treatment approach. The eMHPrac factsheet Getting Started with Digital Mental Health (for Professionals) walks you through the 5 steps to use digital mental health resources. Familiarize yourself with one or two resources as a start.

Who finds online interventions useful?

Clients that engage well in digital interventions tend to be conscientious, have a high level of reflexivity, and are engaged as part of shared decision-making or collaborative treatment planning. Assess a client’s openness regarding digital interventions and their suitability when discussing tasks and goals of therapy.

Why does my client show interest in a digital intervention but not use it?

Client engagement is a common challenge relating to digital interventions. ‘Lack of time’ can often be a generic way of communicating other barriers. Be collaborative and work through the barriers as you would with any other type of intervention.

Listen to the full conversation below. You can also access Digital Mental Health Musings on Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Deezer.