Presented by: Nancy A. Roget, MS, MFT, LADC and Maryellen Evers, LCSW, CAADAC, CMFSW

The uptake in the use of telebehavioral services since the start of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) has been swift and is significantly transforming how behavioral health services are delivered. This is encouraging, as the research base for assessing and treating mental health conditions virtually is extensive and over 60 years old. However, for substance use disorders (SUDs), the research is less extensive and more recent. Mental health and SUD treatment services provided virtually are effective and serve as viable alternatives to in-person service delivery. Patients confirm high levels of satisfaction with telebehavioral health, while practitioners report more reluctance. Nonetheless, training has been shown to build practitioners’ skills, confidence, and competency. Using technology to facilitate clinical or recovery support sessions requires clinicians and peer support specialists to simulate real-time experiences (Hilty, 2002) that promote a therapeutic alliance (treatment) or connection (peer support). However, virtual service delivery requires some careful modification of the clinicians’ or peer support specialists’ skills to ensure engagement occurs and positive working relationships are developed. This webinar will include a brief review of: telebehavioral health research and its efficacy; strategies that promote skill development; how to create a virtual presence; resources related to guidelines and tips; and comments regarding hybrid service delivery.

Sponsored by the Northwest & Pacific Southwest ATTCs and the Western States Node of the Clinical Trials Network.

For information regarding CME and CE credits, visit https://attcnetwork.org/centers/northwest-attc/event/effectiveness-and-utility-telebehavioral-telehealth-services-webinar