Explaining the Motivational Strategies Used in Online Health Psychology Counseling

Abstract

This study aims to explain the motivational strategies used by counselors in online health psychology counseling sessions. A qualitative study was conducted using a conventional content analysis approach. Data were collected through 24 semi-structured interviews with health psychology counselors based in Tehran. Participants were purposefully selected, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Nvivo software. Thematic analysis led to the identification of three main categories: cognitive–behavioral strategies, emotional–relational strategies, and structural–environmental strategies. Each category included several sub-strategies such as goal clarification, cognitive restructuring, problem-solving training, emotional empathy, positive feedback, session structuring, and the use of digital motivational tools. These strategies aimed to enhance clients’ intrinsic motivation, maintain therapeutic continuity, and strengthen self-efficacy within the online setting. The findings indicate that counselors employ a combination of cognitive, emotional, and structural strategies to address the unique challenges of online counseling. These strategies may serve as a foundation for developing more effective motivational interventions, counselor training programs, and the enhancement of online mental health service quality.