Training in cognitive-behavioural therapy for mental health professionals:a pilot study of videoconferencing

A foundation course in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) was developed sp ecifically for delivery via videoconferencing at 256 kbit/s. A two-part, 20 -week programme was evaluated at seven sites, with a total of 12 participan ts, in rural and remote Western Australia. Eleven of the participants compl eted a pre- and posttraining knowledge test. There was a significant improv ement in their knowledge of CST after training. Ten participants also compl eted a satisfaction questionnaire. The majority were satisfied with the tra ining they received and stated that the training had given them greater con fidence in their ability to use CST with their patients. This study lends s upport to the use of videoconferencing in the training of rural and remote mental health practitioners.