ABSTRACT

This study explored counsellors’ experiences with online therapy during the COVID-19 crisis, which presented an opportunity to examine how counsellors evaluated the drawbacks, benefits, and appropriateness of online therapy. Data collected through surveys from 114 professional counsellors, school counsellors, addiction counsellors, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists in the United States were analysed. Results indicated the level of preparation for online therapy varied. The process was heavily impacted by technical functionality and perceived as more effective face-to-face. Counsellors found clients disengaged and distracted rather than comfortable and open. The effectiveness of online therapy was more strongly associated with client characteristics and treatment approaches than with diagnoses and treatment goals. Interpretations, clinical implications, and further research recommendations are provided.

摘要

本研究探讨了辅导员在 COVID-19 危机期间的在线治疗经验，这提供了一个机会来检查辅导员如何评估在线治疗的缺点、益处和适当性。通过对美国 114 名专业辅导员、学校辅导员、成瘾辅导员、临床社会工作者以及婚姻和家庭治疗师的调查收集的数据进行了分析。结果表明在线治疗的准备水平各不相同。该过程受到技术功能的严重影响，并被认为是更有效的面对面。咨询师发现来访者没有参与和分心，而不是舒适和开放。与诊断和治疗目标相比，在线治疗的有效性与客户特征和治疗方法的相关性更强。