Palo Alto University Offers Training Program for Digital Mental Health Practices

Palo Alto University has announced it will begin offering a 50-hour training program for incorporating digital therapy tools into mental health practices. The program, Foundations of Digital Mental Health, will offer “foundational knowledge, training, and best practices necessary” for the online delivery of mental health services.

The program is provided by the university’s Division of Continuing and Professional Studies (CONCEPT) and includes specialized training from leading digital therapy providers, who will guide online videos, readings, and exercises. The program is designed for psychologists, counselors, and those in private practice.

Key learning objectives of the training program include:

• Vetting and using digital tools and technology in therapy
• Evaluating evidence for integrated face-to-face and tech-facilitated therapy and creating a hybrid model if necessary
• Discussing ethical concerns of digitally based therapy, including privacy and collection of user data

To earn a certificate, participants will complete 4 courses:

• Foundations in Digital Therapy
• Technology and Mental Health for Children and Adolescents
• Suicide, Risk Assessment, and Treatment Planning via Telemental Health
• Evidence-Based Internet Interventions to Reduce Health Disparities

“The pandemic required a shift to online delivery of care, which is here to stay,” PAU president Maureen O’Connor said in a news release. “This important certificate ensures that mental health providers understand and apply important best practices in delivering care in an online environment.”

Reference

Palo Alto University sets standard with certificate in digital mental health. News release. Palo Alto University; September 8, 2021. Accessed September 10, 2021.