The COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in the use of online methods to deliver counselling and psychotherapy. This survey of 2,497 BACP members was conducted during the pandemic and explores their perspectives on the impact of online video therapy on the therapeutic relationship.

The results found key themes related to the sense of connection between the therapist and client, interpreting non-verbal communication, working with clients to adapt to the new working practices, and the suitability of online therapy for certain types of work and client groups. This includes challenges surrounding delivering practical exercises, working in-depth with trauma and PTSD, and working with children. Better training provision in online therapy may be useful, as well as specific strategies related to non-verbal communication, delivering practical therapeutic approaches, contracting, assessing risk and ensuring confidentiality. Further research is needed into working online with certain groups such as children, and working in-depth with trauma and other presenting issues.听听听

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