Delivering remote therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study with service users accessing a community personality disorder service

Purpose The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore the views and opinions of service users accessing remote therapy through a community forensic personality disorder service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative exploratory approach was adopted. Nine community forensic service users accessing virtual/telephone therapy through a community forensic mental health service were interviewed using semi-structed interviews. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke (2006) thematic analysis techniques. Findings Analysis resulted in three overall themes: experience of communication in the therapeutic relationship; impacts of the change to remote working and making the best of what we have. A further seven subthemes were developed. A range of advantages and disadvantages to remote therapy were highlighted. Research limitations/implications This study was based on a small sample of service users accessing one community forensic service in England, and therefore caution should be taken when generalising the findings. All interviews were conducted remotely and thus may have only supported those who are able to engage in this way. Practical implications This paper has the potential to inform future remote therapy guidelines. Health services should consider keeping some elements of remote working and offering this as a choice to all service users. Originality/value This study is, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the first study that attempts to explore the experiences of individuals accessing remote therapy within a forensic population who have personality disorders or traits.