Client preferences for and perceptions of psychotherapy modality and delivery in a university counseling setting.

Abstract

With the rise in demand for mental health services and the changed landscape of post-COVID-19 therapy delivery, examining both therapy modality (e.g., individual, group) and delivery methods (e.g., in-person, remote) has become increasingly important. While empirical evidence generally supports equivalency of outcomes across modalities and delivery methods, there is less evidence regarding comparative preferences and perceptions of these variables. To begin to answer these questions, we surveyed a random sample of 777 university students at a large, western university. Congruent with the previous literature, results suggest that there is a strong preference for in-person individual therapy, in spite of the increased experience with teletherapy. We also found a strong reluctance to engage with group therapy. Demographic factors predicting modality and delivery preferences indicated that being older and a woman were associated with increased likelihood to prefer individual therapy (both in-person and teletherapy), and lower class standing was associated with a stronger preference for group therapy. The only symptoms predictor for preferences included higher levels of social anxiety being associated with a higher preference for online self-help. While those who had previously engaged in a particular type of therapy were typically two to three times more likely to prefer it in the future, those who had attended in-person group therapy were over five times more likely to prefer it in the future. Finally, perceptions of past experiences with in-person therapy were significantly more positive than experiences with teletherapy. We discuss the implications of these findings for future research and practice. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).