A Systematic Literature Review of Non Face-to-Face Counseling Program in Human Service

Abstract

The necessity of non face-to-face counseling developed by ICT has been further emphasizing due to social distancing since COVID-19. As non face-to-face counseling programs have been developing, studies that proved those effects have also been reported in Korea. However, few studies that systematically analyzed such programs have been reported. Thus, this study systematically reviewed 17 articles on non face-to-face counseling programs that applied (quasi) experimental design and published in KCI by May 31, 2021. The analysis frameworks are as follows: (1) general characteristics (published years, academic fields, research designs, subjects, and types of non face-to-face counseling), (2) theoretical backgrounds, contents and structures of the programs, and (3) goals of the programs, measurements, and effectiveness. Based on the primary findings, we argued usefulness (anonymity, efficiency, high accessibility, immediate intervention, and ease of post-monitoring) and limitations (limitations of non-verbal expression, quality of contents, low accessibility of information alienated groups, and ethical issues) of non face-to-face counseling programs, and then discussed implications for practical fields of human service. This article is significant in that it contributes to the comprehensive understanding of non face-to-face counseling programs by providing evidence and basic data that may serve as a guide for practitioners as they conduct non face-to-face counseling programs.