Developments in the use of technology in counselling and psychotherapy

Counselling and psychotherapy has been influenced by technology for over 50 years. During this time, the rate at which ways that technology of one kind or another can assist therapists and counsellors has seemed to increase exponentially. This paper introduces and summarises contributions to the subject of technological enhancements or extensions of routine practice. While the variety of technologies referred to is far from exhaustive, the paper offers a representative sampling of the range available to practitioners from the now relatively familiar email, internet chat and video conferencing through to the cutting edge of developments in virtual reality, mood influencing packages and services that, like Web 2.0, can be based upon the needs and designs of the users themselves.