An explanatory sequential investigation of the working alliance as a change process in videoconferencing psychotherapy. Issue 6 (22nd January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Norwood, Carl; Sabin‐Farrell, Rachel; Malins, Sam; Moghaddam, Nima G.
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical psychology. Volume 77:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: 1330
• Page End: 1353
• Publication Date: 2021-01-22
• Subjects: change process -- videoconferencing psychotherapy -- working alliance; Psychology -- Periodicals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23112
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-9762

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives and Design: Debate exists as to patient experience, and the importance, of the working alliance (WA) in videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP). This study used a two‐phase explanatory sequential design to investigate the WA as a change process in VCP. Methods: Phase I: sessional VCP outcome and WA data were analysed using multilevel modelling ( n = 46). Phase II: participants ( n = 12) from Phase I were recruited to semi‐structured interviews, analysed using thematic framework analysis. Results and Conclusions: Results demonstrate: (1) a significant correlation between WA and outcome ( F (1, 15.19) = 25.01, p < 0.001), (2) previous session WA significantly predicted outcome in the next session ( F (1, 355.61) = 4.47, p < 0.05), and (3) previous session outcome significantly predicted next session WA ( F (1, 55.3) = 15.19, p < 0.001), with three core themes explaining patient experience ( engaging with the medium, connection with the therapist, and working via the medium ). Results are discussed and future research recommended.