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An explanatory sequential investigation of the working alliance as a change process in videoconferencing psychotherapy
Author(s) -
Norwood Carl,
SabinFarrell Rachel,
Malins Sam,
Moghaddam Nima G.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.23112
Subject(s) - alliance , session (web analytics) , psychology , outcome (game theory) , thematic analysis , psychotherapist , videoconferencing , multilevel modelling , clinical psychology , multilevel model , qualitative research , multimedia , computer science , social science , mathematics , mathematical economics , machine learning , sociology , world wide web , political science , law
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.