Not Just the Client: Understanding Counsellors’ Experiences of the Online Disinhibition Effect

Kathryn L. Broome, winner of the 2025 Counselling Research Award, discusses her research into the online disinhibition effect (the tendency for people to act differently online) within video-conferencing therapy. Her work addresses a significant gap: while the counselling field has focused on client disinhibition, counsellors' own experiences have been largely overlooked, a key inspiration for exploring this topic. Key discussion points: Online Disinhibition Defined: The tendency for people to act differently online—sometimes more open, sometimes more restrained—due to factors like distance, partial invisibility, and the mediation of technology. Research Gap: Existing literature mostly combines all online modalities (email, text, video) and focuses on clients, not therapists. Three Main Themes: 1. Personal Experiences: Disinhibition feels very different online vs. in-person—online, it’s often awkward or brings shame. 2. Adapting to Tech: Moving to video therapy was described as “weird” and effortful, with practical and emotional adjustments. 3. Therapeutic Relationship: Video changes boundaries and dynamics for both parties; the relationship is co-created through this new medium. Importance of Reflection: Kathryn stresses the need for counsellors to reflect deeply—both individually and in supervision—on how the online setting shapes their own and clients' behaviours. Our key takeaway: Video counselling isn’t just about managing clients' online behaviour—the therapist’s process and the co-creation of the virtual relationship also matter. Reflective practice and supervision tailored to online work are crucial as video therapy becomes a lasting part of the profession.