Therapists’ perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 on the therapeutic alliance with their clients

Abstract

Due to social distancing measures brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, various therapists had no option but to start providing their services in an online setting that was still unknown and unfamiliar to most. This study aims to explore the impact of COVID-19 on the therapeutic alliance from the perspective of therapists in Malta. A qualitative approach was employed in this study, where eight psychology professionals were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the gathered data from which four major themes were identified. Participants affirmed the importance of developing a therapeutic alliance and how established relationships aided the transition from in-person to online therapy. The online therapeutic alliance was perceived as effective but to varied degrees. Participants, alongside challenges of safety, expressed fear and reluctance related to transitioning online with most participants affirming their preference for face-to-face therapy over online therapy even after acquiring experience. Boundary management and rupture prevalence presented a further obstacle for some, leading them to amend their approach. As therapists transitioned back to in-person therapy, the therapeutic alliance remained consistent for the majority.