Online Counseling: A Narrative and Critical Review of the Literature
Citation:
Richards, D., & Viganó, N., Online Counseling: A Narrative and Critical Review of the Literature, Journal of Clinical Psychology, 69, 9, 2013, 994-1011Download Item:
Online Counseling.pdf (Accepted for publication (author's copy) - Peer Reviewed) 1.301Mb
Abstract:
Objective
This article aimed to critically review the literature on online counseling.
Method
Database and hand-searches were made using search terms and eligibility criteria, yielding a total of 123 studies.
Results
The review begins with what characterizes online counseling. Outcome and process research in online counseling is reviewed. Features and cyberbehaviors of online counseling such as anonymity and disinhibition, convenience, time-delay, the loss of social signaling, and writing behavior in cyberspace are discussed. Ethical behavior, professional training, client suitability, and clients’ and therapists’ attitudes and experiences of online counseling are reviewed.
Conclusion
A growing body of knowledge to date is positive in showing that online counseling can have a similar impact and is capable of replicating the facilitative conditions as face-to-face encounters. A need remains for stronger empirical evidence to establish efficacy and effectiveness and to understand better the unique mediating and facilitative variables.
Author's Homepage:
http://people.tcd.ie/drichardDescription:
PUBLISHED
Author: RICHARDS, DEREK
Type of material:
Journal ArticleCollections:
Series/Report no:
Journal of Clinical Psychology69
9
Availability:
Full text availableKeywords:
online counseling, outcomes and process research, therapeutic relationship, cyberbehaviors, ethics, attitudes and experiences, suitability and trainingSubject (TCD):
Behavioral/Experimental Psychology , Health, Clinical and Counselling , PsychologyDOI:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/jclp.21974Licences: