Journal of Rural Mental Health, Vol 47(4), Oct 2023, 211-220; doi:10.1037/rmh0000239
Provision of telepsychological services rose dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to be a highly sought service (Calkins, 2022; Madigan et al., 2021). With this rise came increased awareness of ethics of telepsychology, new resources, and a push for training to provide competent virtual services. In rural, remote, and northern (RRN) Canadian communities, increased use of telepsychological services translated into greater access in areas that have historically had exceptional barriers to receiving psychological services. However, there has been less conversation regarding cultural competency issues that can arise when psychology services are offered to individuals in RRN communities. Rather, there may be an assumption that these are just smaller versions of urban centers, with no modifications needed. RRN communities present with diverse geographies, economic conditions, and cultures, often differing from each other and urban Canadian centers. This diversity necessitates the mental health clinician practice cultural humility to provide a culturally safe therapeutic setting; however, it can be difficult to be aware of aspects of culturally safe care within the context of telepsychology, particularly if the provider is not familiar with the client’s rural or remote community. This article outlines considerations for providing RRN culturally competent telepsychological services, beginning with defining RRN, and exploring RRN competent practices. We then discuss the regulatory issues of providing culturally informed and responsive telepsychological services to these communities. Finally, we highlight practical considerations for psychologists and trainees working within RRN communities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)