In‐session processes in online counselling with young people: An exploratory approach

Abstract

Abstract Aims: The aim of this study was to conduct an exploratory investigation into the in‐session processes and behaviours that occur between therapists and young people in online counseling. Method: The Consensual Qualitative Research method was employed to identify in‐session behaviours and a coding instrument was developed to determine their frequency of use and assess whether nuances carried in the meaning of text messages have an influential effect during sessions. 85 single‐session transcripts were examined in total by two independent coders. Results: Sample statistics revealed that, on average, rapport‐building processes were used more consistently across cases with both types of processes having a moderately strong positive effect on young people. However, closer examination of these processes revealed weaker positive effects for in‐session behaviours that rely more heavily on verbal and non‐verbal cues to be accurately interpreted. Implications for practice: These findings imply that therapists may focus more on building rapport than accomplishing tasks with young people during online counselling sessions due to the absence of verbal and non‐verbal information when communicating via text messages.

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