Psychological Practice in Rural Settings

This article reviews how psychologists working in rural communities often have to be at the cutting edge of practice because of the issues inherent in rural life. Problems faced by rural residents, such as poverty, unemployment, lack of transportation, lack of education, substance abuse, lack of health and mental health providers, and lack of insurance, complicate living day-to-day and receiving physical and mental health care. In addition to reviewing these topics, we highlight 3 areas of emphasis in psychology in which rural psychologists are on the cutting edge: integrated care, use of technology, and prescription privileges. Implications for professional practice include considering adopting the changes in the field such as pursuing training in telehealth technology, investigating advocacy, the benefits of possible collaboration with rural training programs and researchers, and prescription privileges.