Cognitive-behavioural therapy via videoconferencing to a rural area.

OBJECTIVE

This case report describes the use of cognitive-behavioural therapy via two-way, interactive audiovisual videoconferencing and identifies issues involved in using this form of technology to provide therapy.

CLINICAL PICTURE

A 38-year-old married woman living in rural South Australia presented with panic disorder with agoraphobia and major depression. The patient had refused antidepressant treatment.

TREATMENT

The patient was treated with 12 sessions of cognitive-behavioural therapy delivered via videoconferencing.

OUTCOME

Anxiety and depressive symptoms resolved with concomitant improvement in function.

CONCLUSIONS

Providing this form of therapy via videoconferencing can be effective.