Telehealth Assessments

In recent years, especially following the Covid-19 pandemic, healthcare has rapidly

transformed. Among the most notable changes has been the rise of telehealth — and in the

psychology industry, telehealth assessments have become an essential tool. As a clinical

psychologist, I've observed this shift and can share some insights about how telehealth

assessments work, their benefits, and what clients can expect.

What Are Telehealth Assessments?

Telehealth assessments are psychological evaluations conducted remotely using secure

video conferencing platforms. They include clinical interviews, cognitive and academic

testing, behavioural observations, personality assessments, and neuropsychological

screening.

While in-person assessments remain valuable, telehealth has proven that meaningful, valid,

and reliable assessments are possible — even when psychologist and client aren't

physically in the same room.

Several factors have fuelled the growth of telehealth assessments:

• Accessibility: Clients living in rural and regional areas or have mobility challenges

  now have better access to specialised psychological services.

• Convenience: No long commutes or waiting rooms, assessments can happen from

  the comfort of home.

• Continuity of Care: During disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth kept

  psychological services consistent and safe.

• Customisation: Virtual platforms allow flexible scheduling and pacing, which can be

  especially beneficial for individuals with anxiety or sensory sensitivities. Being able to

  connect from the comfort of your own home, means less anxiety about being somewhere that is unfamiliar.

Are Telehealth Assessments as Accurate as In-Person Ones?

Research — and my personal experience — show that many types of assessments translate

well to telehealth with minimal or no difference in validity. However, it’s important to

recognise that not all evaluations are suitable for remote delivery. For example, very young

children, individuals with significant cognitive impairments, or certain types of

neuropsychological testing may still be better served in person.

Challenges and Solutions

Of course, there can be bumps in the road:

• Technical glitches: A dropped call can disrupt flow, but we often plan ahead with

  backup methods.

• Privacy concerns: At Cognitive Assessments Australia, we use HIPAA-compliant platforms and advise clients on setting up private spaces at home.

• Engagement: Some clients, especially children, may find it harder to stay focused

  online. In these cases, we can incorporate more breaks, interactive activities, or shift

  to hybrid models when needed.

Final Thoughts

Telehealth assessments are not just a temporary fix — they are an exciting part of the future

of psychological assessment and treatment. They offer a new level of flexibility, reach, and

innovation and when used thoughtfully, can truly meet people where they are, both literally

and emotionally.

As we continue refining our methods and technologies, I’m optimistic about what’s ahead.

Whether in-person or online, the heart of psychological assessment remains the same:

understanding, supporting, and empowering individuals to thrive.