Integration Of Online Delivery Of Service In Counseling Practice
Online delivery of service or online counselling and therapy refers to equipping the clients the provision on psychotherapy interventions delivered through the internet, either synchronously or asynchronously and whether it is in individual or group settings. A synchronous communication take place in real-time meanwhile the latter is identified by the lag of time between contacts. Emails and forums which do not automatically provide instantaneous response is considered as asynchronous, whereas methods of communications that allows real-time communication service such as video calls or chat through Skype or Whatsapp, would be considered as synchronous.
There are numerous advantages when it comes to online counselling. One of it is that online counselling offers convenient assistance, flexibility and remote access in serving the clients with limited mobility, time restrictions and reducing awkwardness of the client to see the therapist in person. Besides that, online counselling transcends the issue of distance thus enabling the access of psychological help to those who needs it especially those who lives in underserved populations and remote areas. Likewise, those with disabilities, terminal ill, senior citizens and housebound may benefit greatly from online deliver services. Other than that, online environment minimizes social cues, thus creating an illusion of confidentiality that might decrease perceptions of interpersonal risk and made it easier for client to delivers their emotional issues. However, before conducting the clinical application of online counselling they are other key areas that requires attention. First is competence, online counselling is equipped with unique features that distinguish it from traditional counselling, thus a specialized training is needed to ensure the competence of therapist. Nevertheless, in a survey conducted by Finn and Barak (2010), only 6% out of 94 master’s trained counsellor had received formal training in the online delivery of counselling and therapy services.
Next, online counselling service are generally in a greater risk when it comes to privacy and confidentiality. Even though precautions to ensure the security of electronic transmissions is taken seriously, there is always risk of virus or hacking that may occur. Other than that, accidental delivery of information in the form of emails to unintended recipients is unfortunately a common mistake among both laypersons and counselling professionals. One thing to another shall lead to the breaching of confidentiality between the client and the therapist.
These are some of the most common ethical problems faced by online counselling practitioners. It is the same as other counselling context that therapist must produce informed consent from clients in order to carry out online counselling service. A full discloser is required in order for the client to knowingly and freely consent, hence asserting the client’s right to self-determination. It includes the establishment of roles, expectations and right of all parties, also providing ample information to the client regarding this non-traditional way of counselling and that includes the risks and benefits of this service. In its many forms and functions, customizable to fit each therapist and client’s situation, counselling practice can be influenced by the factors discussed.
As the practice continues to advance and evolve with new technology and arising issues, it is also necessary to consider what directions counselling practice may move in to pursue the needs and well-being of the clients.
