An investigation into the therapeutic alliance in online counselling
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Authors
Harmon, Kevin
Issue Date
2015
Degree
Higher Diploma in Arts in Counselling and Psychotherapy
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This paper reviews current literature in relation to online counselling and presents the various mediums through which remote mental health services can be delivered. It considers the role of the online therapist and explores the concept of the therapeutic alliance in relation to e-therapy. It compiles some of the limited research findings which, in general, support the hypothesis that it is possible to establish a positive therapeutic alliance during online therapy. It identifies the need for stronger empirical evidence to establish efficacy and effectiveness of the online therapeutic alliance, and suggests the pursuit of further research into client outcomes from Irish online counselling providers. Author Keywords: Therapeutic alliance in online counselling / therapy