Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has boosted the already emerging process of virtual connections. For couple and family therapists, this major public health crisis has led to changes in the way of treating clients and interacting with colleagues, requiring rapid transition from face-to-face to remote mode, in many cases. This study systematized knowledge about online therapy with couples and families, bringing considerations for practice and professional training in the face of the pandemic. By conducting a narrative literature review, we summarized results from empirical studies, as well as recommendations on technical, ethical, and formative aspects. Specifically, we highlighted both the potential and the challenges of using information and communication technologies in clinical practice with couples and families, including indications and contraindications, more appropriate and safer resources, online therapeutic relationship, training, and supervision. Covid-19 represents an opportunity for reviewing and analyzing the clinical practice and professional training of couples and family therapists in Brazil, a country in which online interventions remained relatively little explored until the pandemic.

Keywords:
Online Therapy; Family Therapy; Couples Therapy; Professional Education; Clinical Supervision