Putting recommendations into practice: Improving psychological services in rural and northern Canada.


Recent publications (i.e., Chodos, 2017; Peachy, Hicks, & Adams, 2013) have made many recommendations for improving access to psychological services for all Canadians but lack a focus on rural and northern (R&N) populations. Limited access to psychologists’ expertise is demonstrable in R&N regions, where resources are particularly strained. This article examines the recommendations through the lens of the R&N psychologist, including those that aim to change existing service delivery models and increase funding. The authors highlight the unique challenges (e.g., recruitment and retention of professionals) and opportunities (e.g., a history of maximizing limited resources) inherent to R&N psychological practice in Canada. We also suggest strategic maximization of current resources (e.g., use of technology to reach remote locations, increased use of stepped care models) alongside a much needed increase of overall support for psychological service provision in R&N areas, particularly among Indigenous communities; we strongly encourage cultural sensitivity and local consultation prior to implementation of psychological services within Indigenous communities. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)