Health Management & Information Science

Health Management & Information Science

Remote Mental Health Services in Iran: Psychologists’ Lens on Opportunities and Challenges

Document Type : Letter to Editor

Authors
Maryam Barati 1
Sahar Zandpil 2
Fatemeh Shaygani 3
Milad Ahmadi Marzaleh 4
1 Department of Psychology, Arsenjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arsenjan, Iran
2 Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
3 Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
4 Assistant Professor, Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
10.30476/jhmi.2025.109182.1325
Abstract
In recent decade, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, telepsychology has emerged as a significant and innovative approach to delivering mental health services worldwide, including Iran. Given the crucial role that these services facilitate in supporting community’s mental well-being; hence, this letter highlights key opportunities and challenges associated with them from the view of practicing psychologists in Iran. It would be beneficial to guide policymakers and researchers in developing targeted interventions to improve Iran’s mental health care system.
Telepsychology in Iran presents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap in mental health care, particularly in under privileged regions. Platforms such as “Hamareh” and “Online Psychological Counseling” are instrumental in promoting equity, providing services to low-income communities where traditional face-to-face options might be scarce. Such initiatives are vital for addressing the urban-rural divide that underpins mental health disparities in Iran. Furthermore, remote services are essential for individuals with physical disabilities, facilitating their access to mental health support in a manner previously unimaginable.

Highlights

Maryam Barati: Google Scholar

Milad Ahmadi Marzaleh: Google Scholar

Keywords
Mental Health Services
Mental Health Teletherapy
Telepsychology
Health Services Accessibility
Iran
Subjects
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Health Management & Information Science
Volume 13, Issue 2
Spring 2026
Pages 162-165