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

A foundation course in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) was developed specifically for delivery via videoconferencing at 256 kbit/s. A two-part, 20-week programme was evaluated at seven sites, with a total of 12 participants, in rural and remote Western Australia. Eleven of the participants completed a pre- and post-training knowledge test. There was a significant improvement in their knowledge of CBT after training. Ten participants also completed a satisfaction questionnaire. The majority were satisfied with the training they received and stated that the training had given them greater confidence in their ability to use CBT with their patients. This study lends support to the use of videoconferencing in the training of rural and remote mental health practitioners.