Engaging Client's Family and Friends in Online Counseling

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Online Therapy
• Family Systems

Background:

• Family involvement is crucial for client recovery.
• Traditional methods may not effectively engage all family members.
• Online platforms offer accessible avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a model for using online counseling to involve family members in client recovery.
• To outline a structured approach for guiding clients and families through the stages of change.
• To facilitate joint action and commitment between clients and their families.

Main Methods:

• Counselor guides client and family members separately through stages of change.
• Participants individually consider concerns and benefits, making commitments.
• Group sessions address stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, commitment to action, and maintenance.

Main Results:

• Successful engagement of family members in the client's recovery process.
• Structured guidance through stages of change leads to joint action.
• Implementation of specific rituals for commitment and celebration.

Conclusions:

• Online counseling provides an effective framework for family-inclusive recovery.
• The described model promotes commitment and collaborative action.
• Continuous monitoring and adaptation support long-term recovery maintenance.