Receiving teletherapy in Ireland: The experiences of service users in the public mental health system

Objective: The present study explored the experiences of service users of Adult Mental Health and Primary Care services in Ireland in receiving teletherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide an illustration of these experiences which may inform future applications of teletherapy. Method: Semi-structured telephone interviews about participants' experiences with teletherapy were conducted, the transcripts of which were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Six themes were generated: Early Apprehensions, Adaptations Improving Experiences, The Therapeutic Space, Seeing and Being Seen, Technical Difficulties: The Loss of "The Moment," and The Security of a Pre-Existing Relationship. Conclusion: Generated themes highlight both the range of experiences that clients can have during teletherapy, and some of the most significant factors which influence these experiences. The quality and effectiveness of teletherapy are often susceptible to factors outside of therapists' and clients' control. In most cases, it may be best considered as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional in-person services.