What is Technology Assisted Counselling?
A Technology Assisted Counselling (TAC) appointment is just like any other appointment you have with your treating psychologist or allied health worker. The only difference is it is not face to face in the usual sense.
What you should know
For a long time, the use of technology has made psychological care to regional and rural clients accessible when geographical restrictions may have otherwise prevented access. It has also made accessing services more convenient for busy clients or those who struggle to get out of the house.
Psychological treatment provided using videoconferencing technology has been found to be as effective as a face-to-face appointment for a variety of mental health problems.
How you should prepare
Plan for your upcoming appointment. You will want to find a quiet, private space to have your session. For some, this will be their office, bedroom, or even in their car. You may choose to use headphones or play music in your room to further ensure others cant hear you.
You will require a device that has both video and audio capabilities. This may be a phone, iPad, tablet, laptop or a computer with video camera. You will also need a stable and reliable internet connection. It is also recommended that you bring a pen and paper to jot down any notes.
You may want to plan what you want to talk about during the session. There may have been between session tasks or practises that you will want to discuss, new events or challenges that you have encountered, or perhaps COVID-19 has been your predominant stress and worry since your last psychology session. Write a few notes so that you don’t forget during your session.
At CQ Psych Services our Technology Assisted Counselling (TAC) services are generally delivered via video conference where a visual and audio connection is established between a client and their treating psychologist. We have chosen to do this through a secure online portal. This portal is being used to ensure all measures are in place so that your TAC appointment is just as private as a face to face appointments. Only you and your psychologist have access and are present during your TAC appointment.
With the current global impact of COVID-19 and our national social distancing regulations in place, the use of TAC services is a responsible alternative to face to face services. This technology, although unfamiliar to some, is shown through research to be effective, secure and a positive alternative to ensure ongoing therapy and support, particularly when in isolation.
How to Access a Psychologist at CQ Psych Services:
- Contact us directly by calling 07 49726929 or email admin@cqpsychservices.com.au
- Ask your GP or health professional to refer you to our clinic.
- Visit our website and complete a ‘Contact Us’ form and one of our friendly staff will reply to your enquiry. Website: https://cqpsychservices.com.au/
Author: Suzie Humphrey