'The future isn't what it used to be': Technology in counselling and psychotherapy

Abstract

Change is prefigured in the articulation by Dr Rick Satavas: `the future isn?t what it used to be?. Its sentiment rings true; recently psychotherapy practitioners and researchers have begun investigating the potential of engaging new technologies, such as the internet and software programs to deliver psychological interventions (Ritterband et al, 2003). Quite a bit of work has already been done and this paper will give an overview. The paper addresses the reasons for innovation and discusses the more salient advantages and disadvantages of engaging technology. In particular the paper will focus on online counselling. Lastly, the therapeutic relationship online will be considered.