Online Counseling through the Eyes of University Students

Abstract

This study examined university students' knowledge levels, experiences, opinions, preferences, and suggestions for improving online psychological counseling services with a phenomenological qualitative research design. The data were collected in two stages using the Online Counseling Interview Form (OCIF) developed by the researchers. In the pre-COVID-19 period, researchers interviewed ten university students, and during COVID-19, they reached out to 11 more students. Descriptive analysis showed that students' knowledge levels and experiences increased, and most students were eager to use online counseling services. Moreover, students provided worth-stressing information about their preferences and suggestions regarding the announcement, design, and implementation of online counseling to improve online counseling services in universities.