Impact and Lessons Learned from the Practice of Psychotherapyin Times of Health Crisis

Abstract

Context: Physical confinement as a consequence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
has had a significant impact on the mental health of the population
and caused a rapid shift from in-person to online psychotherapy. This entailed
major technological, professional, and emotional challenges for therapists
and patients. Objective: To explore the perceptions of mental health
professionals in Mexico regarding the effects of the pandemic on their
mental health and the new modalities of psychotherapy practice that have
transcended the confinement period. Methods or processes: Qualitative
study, with a focus group of eight mental health professionals from different
regions of Mexico, analyzed with ATLAS.ti v.8. Results: Emotions and reactions
such as anxiety, fear, suicidal ideation, increased substance use and
compulsive disorders, as well as the ability to comply with health regulations
and caring behaviors were identified. The challenges identified for online
psychotherapy included difficulty finding suitable spaces, technological
obstacles, and adaptation of in-person techniques. Conclusions: Mental
health professionals implemented changes that adapted their approaches
to continue practicing psychotherapy under the unfavorable conditions of
confinement.These adapted approaches became permanent