The phenomenon of online therapy

Abstract

Psychotherapy online is a phenomenon that is rapidly growing. Given the possibilities provided now by multimedia communication, online therapy does not need separate justification given the extent to which it can simulate face to face therapy. The purpose of this research is to identify how online therapy affects the level of communication, both verbal and non-verbal and thus the possible relationship between therapist and client. It explores the possibility that the option of online therapy entices otherwise hesitant clients into therapy as the anonymity appears to offer them a sense of security. It explores whether online therapy is complimentary to traditional face to face therapy and examines whether or not the integration of this new technology is representing a new approach in psychotherapy. This Study used semi structured interview and five participants were interviewed. The information that was collected from the interviews was grouped into a thematic structure which showed common themes emanating from the data. Namely the positive level of communication – to include non-verbal cues, the benefit of the Disinhibition effect, presence of Transference and counter transference, and that it is complimentary and beneficial to Face to Face therapy.