Delivering remote therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study with service users accessing a community personality disorder service

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore the views and opinions of service users accessing remote therapy through a community forensic personality disorder service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative exploratory approach was adopted. Nine community forensic service users accessing virtual/telephone therapy through a community forensic mental health service were interviewed using semi-structed interviews. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke (2006) thematic analysis techniques. Findings Analysis resulted in three overall themes: experience of communication in the therapeutic relationship; impacts of the change to remote working and making the best of what we have. A further seven subthemes were developed. A range of advantages and disadvantages to remote therapy were highlighted