An empirical examination of client attitudes towards online counseling

Cyberpsychol Behav. 2005 Apr;8(2):172-7. doi: 10.1089/cpb.2005.8.172.

Abstract

Trends over the past decade have shown that online counseling has grown in terms of popularity among consumers and clinicians alike; however, little, if any empirical evidence exists that examines client attitudes towards online counseling as alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy. Therefore, this study investigated client attitudes towards online counseling. Data was collected from 48 e-clients who received online counseling at the Center for Online Addiction. Variables such as client perceptions and concerns about using online counseling, clients' reasons for seeking online counseling over in-office treatment, and demographic profiles of e-clients were assessed. Results suggested that Caucasian, middle-aged males, with at least a four-year bachelors degree were most likely to use online counseling and anonymity, convenience, and counselor credentials were the most cited reasons they sought online counseling over in-office treatment. The lack of perceived privacy and security during online chat sessions and the fear of being caught while conducting online sessions were the main concerns reported by e-clients. A better understanding of client motives and perceptions towards online counseling helps to guide treatment in using the Internet as a clinical tool, especially as the Internet becomes increasingly more available in previously remote markets and the field of online counseling continues to grow.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude to Computers
  • Behavior, Addictive / therapy*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Confidentiality
  • Counseling / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Mental Health Services / organization & administration
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Remote Consultation / instrumentation
  • Remote Consultation / methods*
  • Therapy, Computer-Assisted / methods*