Counselors' lived experience of online counseling using video chat: Opportunities and challenges

Abstract

A vast amount of empirical studies has shown evidence of the effectiveness of online counseling and the ability to develop an authentic relationship between counselor and client. Yet, little is known about the best practice of the facilitation of online counseling, especially using video chat as the method of communication. The present study investigated the counselor’s lives experience of the key factors and main challenges of establishing an authentic relationship using video chat. Semi-structured interviews ere conducted via video call with three online counselors with a degree in psychology, at least three years of post-qualification experience, working face-to-face with clients, and at least one year of experience working online with clients. Using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) four main themes emerged; conditions for successful ensuing benefits, advantages/positive outcome of online counseling, and differences and similarities in online and offline counseling.