title: Controversy clarified: an updated review of clinical psychology and tele-health.
abstract: One of the most controversial topics in the field of clinical psychology, online tele-health, or the integration of computers and the internet with therapeutic techniques, remains at the forefront of many debates. Despite potential interest, there are numerous factors that a psychologist must consider before integrating an online tele-health intervention into their own practice. This article outlines literature pertinent to the debate. The article begins with a brief history of the use of non-face-to-face interventions as well as the earliest recorded use of "tele-health" before discussing the modern benefits and risks associated with usage. Considerations for the psychologist as well as the client are detailed; incorporating ethical implications. The authors conclude that the utilization of tele-health interventions is an exponentially expanding field that should continue to be explored. Despite many well-conceived studies, a psychologist should educate themselves in all aspects of the new modes of intervention (e.g., ethical, legal, evidence-based treatments) before attempting to implement them into everyday practice. The article ends with a discussion on the acceptance among psychologists, as well as the outlook for the future.
authors.affiliation: Center for Psychological Studies, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA. perle@nova.edu
authors.forename: Jonathan G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Perle
authors.forename: Leah C
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Langsam
authors.forename: Barry
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Nierenberg
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011586:Psychology, Clinical / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000191:economics / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods