13.5 Conclusion

The integration of technology into substance use disorder and mental health care, mainly through telehealth, has transformed the delivery of counseling services, offering greater accessibility, flexibility, and convenience. However, these advancements also introduce new challenges that counselors must navigate thoughtfully. From ensuring ethical practices and client confidentiality to addressing disparities in technology access and competency, the effective use of telehealth requires careful consideration of diverse client needs and circumstances. Counselors must remain vigilant in assessing their clients’ suitability for virtual services, addressing potential barriers, and adapting interventions to maintain therapeutic efficacy. By fostering cultural competence, technological literacy, and a commitment to equitable care, counselors can leverage telehealth as a powerful tool to expand mental health access while upholding the profession’s ethical and clinical standards. As the telehealth landscape evolves, ongoing research, training, and collaboration will be essential in shaping best practices and addressing emerging challenges in this dynamic field.