Online Counseling Research Articles

Cross-sectional analysis of healthcare worker mental health and utilisation of a digital mental health platform from 2020 to 2023

BackgroundHealthcare worker (HCW) anxiety and depression worsened during the pandemic, prompting the expansion of digital mental health platforms as potential solutions offering online assessments, access to resources and counselling. The...

Sexual Interventions in the Metaverse: Attitudes Towards Novel Therapeutic Approaches, a Qualitative Study.

Mental health treatment for psychosexual problems is effective, but treatment rates are low. Metaverse-based therapy offers one solution to increase overall treatment rates. Understanding attitudes towards this novel approach could lead to wider adoption of metaverse-based therapy, resulting in higher treatment rates for psychosexual problems. Twenty-one participants across three focus groups of different ages shared their perceptions and attitudes about metaverse-based therapy broadly and for treating sexual disorders. A content analysis of the transcribed text from the focus groups using qualitative data analysis software was conducted. Participants identified several perceived benefits of metaverse-based intervention, including avoiding the perceived embarrassment of going to a clinic and accessing patients (a) with diverse physical or mental functionality, (b) living in remote areasand/or (c) balancing different family/work obligations or duties. The two main concerns with metaverse-based therapy were the fear of online therapy being less personal than traditional therapy and the technological fluency needed. Clarifying their acceptance of the therapy, participants reported that they would be more likely to engage in metaverse-based therapy if they trusted their therapist. Also, although it might be effective for mild and moderate disorders, participants were more reluctant about its use for severe mental illness. Results suggest that attitudes towards metaverse-based intervention are mainly positive, since it removes some barriers that hinder access to psychological treatment in general and, specifically, for problems of a sexual nature. During the design stage, a person with sexual difficulties was consulted to understand the patient's perspective. Members of the public advised the implementation of the focus groups. Three potential service users were involved in the coding of the text during the content analysis.

Climate crisis and psychiatry

The climate crisis is increasingly leading to negative consequences for mental health and is of growing importance for psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care. The effects of the climate crisis on mental health and its significance for psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care are presented. Recommendations for sustainability in psychiatric and psychotherapeutic practice are provided. Anarrative review of the literature was conducted for this article. The climate crisis has direct, indirect and intersectional negative effects on mental health. Sustainable and preventive recommendations for the practice include promoting health literacy, faster access to psychotherapy and online counselling, supporting social networks, promoting employment and reducing poverty, homelessness and social isolation. It is recommended to increase the proportion of outpatient care and to streamline administrative processes. The use of disposable products should be minimized and the application of instrumental diagnostics and materials should be optimized according to guidelines. Digital interventions should be considered more frequently in the clinical practice and sustainable facility management should be improved. Access to green spaces for the general population and patients should be facilitated. Due to the negative impact of the climate crisis on mental health, sustainability should be promoted in psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care.

Efficacy study comparing a CBT-I developed for shift workers (CBT-I-S) to standard CBT-I (cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia) on sleep onset latency, total sleep time, subjective sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness: study protocol for a parallel group randomised controlled trial with online therapy groups of seven sessions each

BackgroundShift workers are at an increased risk of developing sleep disorders. The standard therapy recommended for sleep disorders is cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). Many of its interventions are based on a regular sleep and wake rhythm, which is difficult to apply for shift workers. We have therefore developed a new therapy manual specifically for shift workers (CBT-I-S), which should be more applicable to their needs. In particular, all interventions that require regularity have been removed, and instead, interventions that address factors that proved to be relevant to sleep in our preliminary study have been integrated. We now want to test this manual for its effectiveness.MethodsA randomised controlled trial with N = 142 will be conducted to compare two conditions: the newly developed therapy manual will be carried out in the experimental group, while cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia will be employed in the standard group. Both treatments will be conducted online via MS Teams in a group setting with seven sessions each. Data will be collected at three measurement points (pre, post, 6-month follow-up) and analysed using linear mixed models. The study will investigate whether the two treatments have led to significant improvements in total sleep time, sleep onset latency, subjective sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in shift workers. It will also examine whether the new therapy manual is superior to standard therapy in shift workers and whether these effects are stable.DiscussionWe assume that interventions designed to address depressive mood, anxiety, worry, rumination, dysfunctional thought patterns and attitudes towards sleep will also improve sleep. If this is indeed the case, these interventions could replace previous ones that require regularity. This could significantly improve the treatment of insomnia in shift workers.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Registry DRKS DRKS00032086. Registered on August 16, 2023.

Nurses Supporting Nurses: A Model for Providing Mental Health Services During War.

Nurses routinely face psychological challenges as part of their work, acutely so during times of crises when nurses may treat many severely injured and dying patients. While the need for such support is well documented in the literature, mental health support programmes aimed at healthcare workers, even when available, are often underutilised, especially by nurses. To gain insights about needed mental health supports for nurses and programme implementation, this study examines a programme launched following a surprise attack on Israel on 7 October, 2023, resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries and precipitating a war. The programme deployed 30 volunteer nurses trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, trauma support and mental health first aid to offer up to three, anonymous, 30-min online therapy sessions to nurses around Israel in December 2023. Using a qualitative descriptive design, we engaged 22 of these volunteers in one of the three focus groups lasting 60-90 min each. Our findings highlight a range of mental health issues-among both the volunteers and therapy recipients-as well as barriers to providing mental health support to nurses. The importance of normalising the pursuit of mental health support in nursing education and ensuring the availability of support in healthcare organisations was emphasised.

Online Counseling in the Student Context: A Bibliometric Analysis

This study aims to provide a bibliometric review of the relevant previous research landscape related to online counseling in the student context from 2000-2023. Data were taken from the Scopus database of 215 and refined into 114 publications. Based on the results from bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software, it was found that 2020 would be the year with the most published articles, namely, 20 articles. The United States is the country that publishes the most articles related to online counseling in the student context, with 26 publications and 18 collaboration links with other countries, followed by Australia, namely 12 publications with 8 collaboration links with other countries, and Indonesia, namely 10 publications with 11 collaboration links with other countries. The trend of citations related to online counseling in the student context occurred in 2020, with as many as 253 citations. Of the 114 articles that have published research related to this field, 40 have been published in Q1 journals. The focus of research on online counseling in the student context by clustering using VOSviewer software is 1) COVID-19 and mental health; 2) higher education and self-stigma; 3) technology and anxiety.

Study protocol: perinatal mood treatment study

Perinatal depression (PND) affects up to 20% of women and is associated with significant impairment and disability in affected women. In addition, perinatal depression is associated with broader public health and multigenerational consequences. Innovative approaches are needed to reduce the burden of perinatal depression through identification, tracking, and treatment of depressive symptoms during the perinatal period. This study is a randomized clinical trial comparing the relative efficacy of a multi-tiered system of care, Screening and Treatment of Anxiety and Depression (STAND) to perinatal care delivered by a reproductive psychiatrist in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. A sample of 167 individuals was randomized between week 28 of pregnancy and 6 months postpartum. A secondary aim compares the original online therapy intervention used in the first half of the study to a newer online therapy program used in the second half of the study for individuals assigned to the STAND treatment. The study measures, intervention groups, and analysis methods are described, as well as expected implications. The findings from this study may improve the methods for tracking symptom changes over time, monitoring treatment response, and providing personalized care for individuals with PND. As such, this study may improve the lives of patients with PND and their families and lower the related health care costs to society.Trial registration NCT: 9/24/2021NCT direct link: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05056454?term=NCT05056454&rank=1&a=1.

Internet-based treatment for Autistic Spectrum DisorderAn overview

Internet-based therapies have emerged as effective alternatives to traditional face-to-face therapies, demonstrating efficacy in treating mental health problems and providing accessible care, especially in this post-pandemic world. Moreover, the unique characteristics of the Internet offer promising opportunities to cater to the unique requirements of patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) , emphasizing profound impact that can be achieved through internet-based therapy in revolutionizing existing therapeutic paradigms. However, investigation of online therapy for adults and older individuals with ASD is currently limited. This systematic review provides a summary of the status of existing research investigating the application of Internet-based therapies on individuals with ASD, including Virtual Reality-based interventions, Artificial Intelligence-based interventions and other online therapies. The primary objectives are to assess the efficacy of Internet-based therapies as treatments for individuals with ASD. Additionally, potential differences between Internet-delivered therapies and traditional face-to-face therapies are also being explored. By providing a comprehensive analysis of both Internet-based and traditional therapy modalities, this review aims to contribute to our understanding and delivery of more effective therapeutic options available for individuals with ASD. Future directions on better therapeutic choices are discussed, as well as the need for addressing the existing research gap towards elder population.

Prevalence and correlates of depression, anxiety, and stress among adolescents in urban and rural areas of Mysuru, South India.

Adolescence, a volatile period of growth between the ages of 10 and 19, is associated with increased vulnerability to mental health problems. Factors such as academic pressure can contribute to these challenges. The current study aimed to evaluate the factors and prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among adolescents in the urban and rural areas of Mysuru district. A cross-sectional study was conducted in private high schools in both urban and rural regions. Prior permission and informed consent were obtained from participants and their legal guardians aged 18 years and older. The gender distribution in urban areas was 60.2% female and 39.8% male, while in rural areas, it was 51% male and 49% female. The prevalence of depression was higher in rural (39.3%) than in urban areas (24.2%), while anxiety was more prevalent in urban (50.6%) than in rural areas (49%). Stress was also more common in rural (16.6%) than urban adolescents (14.6%). Factors significantly associated with mental health outcomes included monthly family income, parenting practices, academic pressures, and self-esteem. Key needs identified were mobile mental health applications, online counseling services, and access to school counselors. This study provides insights into the prevalence and correlates of common mental health issues among adolescents in this region of South India. The findings emphasize the necessity of providing mobile applications and offline counseling services to effectively support and meet the needs of adolescents in these settings.

Utilizing Generative Artificial Intelligence in the Online Counselor Education Classroom

Utilizing Generative Artificial Intelligence in the Online Counselor Education Classroom

An Online Single-Session Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression and Anxiety Associated with Multiple Sclerosis-Pilot Study.

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most debilitating neurodegenerative diseases in youth, significantly affecting all life domains. Therefore, a strong association between MS, depression and anxiety symptoms has been established. The objective of the present interventional one-group pretest-posttest study is to assess the feasibility of an online single-session intervention (SSI) based on a cognitive behavioral therapy protocol targeting depressive and anxiety symptoms, psychological mechanisms, fatigue and overall health status. Methods: In this pilot study, 31 patients with MS (Mage = 42 years, SD = 12.2) received the online CBT SSI. The impact of the intervention was assessed using validated instruments two weeks after the intervention and after a two-month follow-up period. Results: Statistically significant effects were observed for the reduction of depression, with B = -7.58, 95% CI (-12.84, -2.31) and p < 0.01, and anxiety, with B = -15.17, 95% CI (-18.31, -12.02) and p < 0.001, at post-test and follow-up screening. Additionally, positive outcomes were seen for irrational beliefs at post-test, with B = -25.86, 95% CI (-46.10, -5.61), along with negative automatic thoughts, with B = -4.47, 95% CI (-10.65, 1.71), which were preserved at follow-up. Despite the health status also improving, no significant changes were observed for dysfunctional attitudes and fatigue. Conclusions: This research proves that the online CBT SSI was efficient for decreasing mild to moderate symptoms of depression and anxiety and reducing the intensity of dysfunctional psychological mechanisms in our sample.

Online Counselling in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Unknown or Necessary?

Online counseling as a method of assisting is currently very popular and widely used worldwide. Although the development of counseling and psychotherapy in an online environment began with the advent of the Internet, it is only in recent times that the online approach to supporting and helping individuals in crisis has been more systematically and seriously implemented. The popularity and significance of online counseling and psychotherapy in modern society are the result of social changes. In light of this, research was conducted to examine the attitudes and experiences of Bosnian citizens regarding online counseling and consulting with experts to overcome life problems. The study surveyed 100 citizens through a questionnaire, and the results indicate their insufficient awareness of the possibilities of online counseling and prejudices toward professionals. Also, a case study was presented – the first online platform for counseling and psychotherapy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as an example of good practice. Through a semi-structured interview, insight was gained into the professional experience of experts in counseling and psychotherapeutic work. The research results can provide insight into the availability of counseling services in an online environment and open up new research questions that could encourage professionals to engage in this form of psychosocial work.

The Impact of Attitudes toward Online Counseling on the Emotional Well-Being of Distance Learners at Knust

Web-based counseling is a cutting-edge delivery method that can reach college students who might not seek aid in person. Distance learning requires that learners access academic services remotely from the institution of study. Thus, academic services and support services such as counseling are remotely accessed. Due to the remote learning nature of distance learning, remote counseling or online counseling is the way to go. This study sought to understand the impact of attitudes toward online counseling services on improving the emotional well-being of distance students. The approach to the study is a quantitative research design using the adapted and shaped Positive Emotional Well-being Scale (PEWS) and the adapted and shaped Online Counseling Scale (OCS) questionnaire, which represents the average value on the Likert scale for online counseling was used to help evaluate the weak and strong perceptions regarding attitudes toward online counseling. The purposive sampling technique was used to select 354 students who were distance learners at KNUST. A Pearson correlation coefficient was computed to determine the relationship between Attitudes toward Online Counseling and Emotional Well-being scores. The variables Attitudes toward Online Counseling and Emotional Well-being were found to be strongly correlated, r (354) = .587, p &lt; .0001. In all, there was a significant positive relationship between Attitudes toward Online Counseling and Emotional well-being among distance learners at KNUST. Findings, therefore, showed that a positive and strong attitude toward online counseling is significant in resolving the emotional well-being concerns of distance learning students at KNUST.

Causes and effects of crystal methamphetamine usage among undergraduates in public tertiary institutions in Anambra State: Emerging technological resources for intervention and prevention

This study investigated the causes and effects of crystal methamphetamine usage among undergraduates at public tertiary institutions in Anambra State. It examined its potential intervention and prevention strategies using emerging technological resources. The study was conducted using a descriptive survey research design. Three research questions guided the research. The researchers used two questionnaires to collect data, distributing 200 copies randomly among undergraduate students. The researchers designed the questionnaire and validated by experts specifically for this study. Respondents' personal information was analyzed using percentages, while mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the research questions. The findings revealed among others, that there are reasons behind crystal methamphetamine use among students at public tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Awka, and this use negatively impacts their academic performance and health. The findings also revealed that mobile applications, online counselling platforms and social media campaigns are the emerging technological resources for intervention and prevention. Recommendations were made, including that families should take the lead in combating drug abuse by collaborating with community organizations like town unions should work on preventing the production, sale, and use of methamphetamine within and outside the university environments. It was further recommended that educational institutions like public tertiary institutions in Anambra State could leverage emerging technologies such as mobile applications, online platforms, and social media campaigns to disseminate information about the harmful effects of drug use and provide resources for prevention and intervention. Keywords: Crystal Methamphetamine, Causes, Effects, Usage, Emerging, Technological Resources, Intervention, Prevention.

치매노인 가족부양자의 우울감 감소를 위한 집단상담 프로그램 개발 요구도 조사

Objectives This study was attempted to provide basic data for the development of a group counseling program for family dependents for the elderly with dementia to reduce depression among family dependents (housewife dependents, other dependents). Methods The subjects of the study are family dependents living with 80 elderly people aged 65 or older registered in the dementia management project among the elderly who use the Daegu Metropolitan City Day Care Center and the Home Welfare Center. Data were collected through a questionnaire by dividing family caregivers into housewives (80 people) and other caregivers (80 people). The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, cross-analysis, factor analysis, multiple regression analysis, and t-test. Results As a result of the study, 55.0% of housewives and 60.0% of other dependents living with the elderly with dementia said they were willing to participate in group counseling. As a result of statistical analysis, the burden of support for other dependents living with the elderly with dementia was positively significant in depression, indicating that depression also increased as the burden of support for family dependents increased. In the composition of the group counseling program, both housewives had a high demand for emotional support and empathy, and other dependents had a high demand for self-care and stress management. Among other supporters who want to participate in group counseling, 56.2% prefer online counseling to face-to-face counseling. Conclusions As a result of this study, special attention is needed not only for elderly housewives with dementia but also for other dependents in order to reduce depression among elderly families with dementia. There is an urgent need for a professional group counseling program for them. In order to maximize the effectiveness of the program rather than uniform group counseling, it is necessary to operate a customized program and prepare a system that applies various counseling methods for each subject.

Online Group Psychotherapy: A Systematic Review.

There is a need within counselling and psychotherapy to ensure their ability to respond to endemic presences such as the COVID-19 pandemic, by utilising rapid technological advances without compromising effectiveness. To do so, existing research about online group therapy must be built upon to provide a comprehensive understanding of the efficacious delivery of this therapy modality. Thus, a systematic review was conducted to collate what is currently known in the published and grey literature on online group therapy, using the PRISMA framework. Thirty-three articles were identified as including information regarding facilitating group therapy online. After appraising each article using appropriate quality appraisal tools, a thematic analysis was conducted on the papers, arriving at seven main themes summarising the main findings regarding online versus in-person groups, group planning, counselling micro skills, group processes, ethics, technology, and unique online therapy issues. There is a growing but incomplete body of knowledge that informs the group therapist regarding the ethical delivery of groups online. A more comprehensive review can enable group therapists to feel confident they are across best practice guidelines. Limitations and research implications are considered.

Educating Banten's culinary MSMEs on the value of nutritional information and halal labeling

Many consumers seek nutritional information and halal certification on food packaging to make informed choices and build trust. However, culinary MSMEs in Banten often lack the knowledge on proper labeling procedures. To address this gap, a community service program was initiated to educate Banten's culinary MSMEs on the significance of including nutritional value and halal labels on their products. The program utilized online counseling sessions (Zoom Meetings) with discussions, Q&amp;A sessions, and e-questionnaires. Evaluation results highlighted a high level of understanding among participants, with an average score of 91.22% for knowledge (cognitive aspect), 92.36% for attitude (affective aspect), and 90.97% for willingness to act (behavioral aspect).

The Future of Speech Therapy for Autism: Bridging Technology and Personalized Care

Researchers have been working on autism since the 1980s [1]. Autism spectrum disorder (AUD) is a complex neurodevelopment condition that affects people's interaction with others, behavior, communication, and social interaction. Although autism may be a lifelong condition, appropriate support, services, and treatments can improve a person's symptoms and daily functioning. Individuals with autism often face challenges with speech and language development are prominent. Speech therapy (ST) plays a role in gaining control over verbal communication. An effective speech therapy can enhance the quality of life by addressing communication difficulties. Traditionally, the treatment of autism has a multidisciplinary approach that aims to address the diverse needs of individuals on the spectrum. Advancements in technology are revolutionizing the field by offering various possibilities for personalized care and improved outcomes. Healthcare professionals diagnose autism by assessing a person's development patterns and behaviors. Currently, speech therapy is delivered through face-to-face interactions with a trained therapist. Because parents of autistic children consistently identify language and social communication skills as a top priority. This approach has limitations, like scheduling conflicts, limited access to geographical constraints, and specialized care [2]. Telepractice platforms and virtual reality systems (VR), offer novel opportunities for accessible, personalized, and engaging therapy experiences. Telepractice is an online therapy service via technology-based platforms that allows long-distance interventions, breaking geographical barriers and expanding access to specialized care. Specifically, telepractice capitalized on communication practices such as video conferencing, and data tracking tools to facilitate effective communications and reduce barriers like distance. It is a very effective and low-cost method for conducting and completing online sessions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder [3]. The use of mobile technology in various countries become a necessity in the lives of people and also makes it a potential medium of intervention for people diagnosed with autism. It also enhances social skills, language development, and communication abilities. Virtual reality is an essential tool for healthcare intervention, offering realistic scenarios for practicing communication strategies and social interaction. Virtual reality interventions can lead to more stable and faster communication skills over time [4]. Advancements in artificial intelligence has enabled therapists to analyze data and identify patterns to meet the unique needs of each individual with autism. Technology is poised to facilitate collaboration and communication among individuals, and promote consistency across various settings. Researchers are involved in creating and training robots to interact with autistic children. We can empower individuals with autism to reach their full communication potential with the help of these latest technologies.

Assessing Stress Levels and Coping Strategies in the New Normal among Students of Magsaysay College

The primary objective of this study was to assess stress levels and analyze coping strategies among Magsaysay College students. Utilizing a descriptive correlational research design, the study explored the relationship between students' demographic profiles, including age, gender, marital status, year level, family income, and reported stress levels. It also examined the correlation between stress levels and the use of coping strategies. The research concluded that demographic factors do not have a significant impact on stress levels among students and that stress is a ubiquitous challenge for students across different backgrounds. Interestingly, there is a slight negative correlation between family income and stress levels among students; this relationship is not statistically significant. This suggests that students show resilience and do not let the challenges of lower family income escalate their stress levels appreciably. A positive correlation was identified between stress levels and the employment of coping strategies, indicating that students tend to rely more on coping mechanisms as stress levels increase. It was recommended that Magsaysay College’s Guidance Center enhance its mental health support services by providing more resources, educational programs, and online counseling on effective coping strategies. Local Government Unit (LGU) of Magsaysay and other stakeholders are advised to collaborate on community-based support programs and invest in mental health initiatives to bolster the well-being of the students. Such collaborative efforts could significantly contribute to a more supportive learning environment, fostering students' academic success and personal growth.

An Exploratory Study of the Potential of Online Counseling for University Students by a Human-Operated Avatar Counselor.

Recently, the use of digital technologies, such as avatars and virtual reality, has been increasingly explored to address university students' mental health issues. However, there is limited research on the advantages and disadvantages of counselors using avatars in online video counseling. Herein, 25 university students were enrolled in a pilot online counseling session with a human counselor-controlled avatar, and asked about their emotional experiences and impressions of the avatar and to provide qualitative feedback on their communication experience. Positive emotions during the session were associated with impressions of the avatar's intelligence and likeability. The anthropomorphism, animacy, likeability, and intelligent impressions of the avatar were interrelated, indicating that the avatar's smile and the counselor's expertise in empathy and approval may have contributed to these impressions. However, no associations were observed between participant experiences and their prior communication with avatars, or between participant experiences and their gender or the perceived gender of the avatar. Accordingly, recommendations for future practice and research are provided. Accumulating practical and empirical findings on the effectiveness of human-operated avatar counselors is crucial for addressing university students' mental health issues.