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.