Trainee Therapists鈥� Perceptions of Online Versus In-Person Psychotherapy: A Qualitative Study Exploring Challenges, Effectiveness, and Training Provisions
My name is Alisha Suleman and I am currently completing my MSc in Counselling and Integrative Psychotherapy at the University of Wolverhampton. As part of my dissertation project, I am conducting a qualitative study titled:
"Trainee Therapists鈥� Perceptions of Online Versus In-Person Psychotherapy: A Qualitative Study Exploring Challenges, Effectiveness, and Training Provisions."
This study has received ethical approval from the University of Wolverhampton Ethics Committee.聽
The purpose of this study is to explore how trainee therapists perceive and experience delivering therapy both online (via video platforms like Zoom or MS Teams) and in-person. The research investigates perceived benefits and challenges, differences in client engagement and therapeutic alliance, and the extent to which current training provisions prepare trainees for each modality.
I am currently seeking participants who:
- Are trainee counsellors or psychotherapists enrolled in a professional training programme (diploma, MSc, doctoral)
- Have delivered a minimum of five sessions, both online and in-person
- Have received clinical supervision related to both formats
- Have practised within the last two years
Participation involves a one-hour semi-structured interview conducted via Microsoft Teams. All data will be anonymised and securely stored, and participants will have the opportunity to select a pseudonym to maintain confidentiality. This research has been ethically approved and follows GDPR and university data protocols.
Interested individuals can learn more and confirm their eligibility by completing this brief screening form:
I appreciate your time and consideration in supporting this student-led research.
Kind regards,
Alisha Suleman