A pilot study of a family systems oriented telemental health model in rural Brazil

AbstractThere are large disparities in access to mental health care, especially in low ‐ and middle‐income countries. Telemental health is a viable solution to reducing these disparities, but quality research demonstrating its effectiveness is needed. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility of a telemental health approach in a rural region of Brazil. Primary care providers referred patients diagnosed with depression and anxiety to a 12‐session family systems‐oriented telemental health program developed by the researchers. Participants (n = 10) received therapy by family systems trained therapists. While sessions were delivered via telemental health, each received one face‐to‐face session as part of the treatment regimen. Results from the one‐tailed t‐tests indicate reductions in psychosocial symptoms and improvements in f amily functioning with medium and large effect sizes. Findings reveal that a family systems‐oriented telemental health approach is a promising intervention for improving mental health outcomes in a middle‐income country.

Source: Journal of Marital and Family Therapy - March 20, 2021 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Paul R. Springer, Olga Falceto, Richard J. Bischoff, Enrique Barros, Patricia Scheeren, Nathan C. Taylor, Daiana Cargnin Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research