Online Counseling and Therapy for Mental Health Problems: A Systematic Review of Individual Synchronous Interventions Using Chat

Abstract

Online interventions are increasingly seen as having the potential to meet the growing demand for mental health services. However, with the burgeoning of services provided online by psychologists, counselors, and social workers, it is becoming critical to ensure that the interventions provided are supported by research evidence. This article reviews evidence for the effectiveness of individual synchronous online chat counseling and therapy (referred to as “online chat”). Despite using inclusive review criteria, only six relevant studies were found. They showed that although there is emerging evidence supporting the use of online chat, the overall quality of the studies is poor, including few randomized control trials (RCTs). There is an urgent need for further research to support the widespread implementation of this form of mental health service delivery.

KEYWORDS:

• effectiveness
• mental health
• online counseling and therapy
• outcome

Notes

Note. CBT = Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Summary from Barak, Klein, and Proudfoot, 2009.

Note. RCT = Randomized control trials.

Note. RCT = Randomized control trials; STAI = State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; BDI = Beck Depression Inventory; CBT = Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; GHQ = General Health Questionnaire; SIS = Session Impact Scale; GAF = Global Assessment of Functioning.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mitchell Dowling

Mitchell Dowling is a Doctoral Candidate, BPsych & BA, Hons (Psych), University of Canberra.

Debra Rickwood

Debra Rickwood, PhD, is a Fellow of the Australian Psychological Society (FAPS), Professor of Psychology, University of Canberra and Head of Clinical Leadership and Research at headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation.