Online counselling experience the provision of synchronous counselling sessions among college students

Abstract

The study explored the experience of students at Wesley College of Education in Ghana regarding online synchronous counselling. This study adopted a qualitative research approach and a phenomenological research design. Data was gathered from 15 students at Wesley College of Education of Ghana through a semi-structured interview and analysed thematically. The findings indicated that Wesley College of Education students experienced online synchronous counselling, particularly via Zoom as convenient, cost-effective, and time-effective. Further, the study discovered that clients found online synchronous counselling to be as effective as in-person sessions. However, network instability and lack of nonverbal cues were challenges faced by clients in establishing trust and a therapeutic alliance with counsellors during online synchronous counselling. Empathy, attentive listening and creative communication were opportunities used by counsellors to establish a therapeutic alliance with clients through Zoom. To overcome the challenges and enhance online synchronous counselling in Wesley College of Education, continuous education and awareness-building among clients and counsellors, creating virtual waiting rooms, and pre-testing of gadgets are avenues. The study recommended that counsellors should seek continual professional development and training on Zoom use and integration in the synchronous counselling process. It is also recommended that counselling unit at Wesley College of Education engages in awareness campaigns to highlight the effectiveness and benefits of online synchronous counselling.