Which aspect is prioritized over video quality during a telemental health session?

In telemental health sessions, audio clarity is essential as it allows for clear communication and understanding between the therapist and the client. Effective engagement relies heavily on what is being said, as verbal communication conveys emotions, nuances, and important therapeutic messages. If audio quality is poor, the therapist may miss critical information, and the therapeutic process could be hindered.

While video quality is important as it helps in nonverbal communication, it is secondary to ensuring that both participants can hear and understand each other clearly. A session may still be productive with acceptable video quality as long as the audio is clear. Thus, prioritizing audio clarity ensures that key interactions and discussions can take place without significant interruptions or misunderstandings, leading to a more effective therapeutic experience.