Analysis of Counseling Relationship Factors Affecting the Counseling Outcomes of Clients Suffering from Depression : A Mixed-Methods Approach

This study aims to explore the counseling relationship factors that affect counseling outcomes for clients who suffer from depression. A mixed-methods approach using a sequential explanatory design was conducted with 49 individuals who had attended at least five counseling sessions for depressive symptoms within the past year. Quantitative analysis revealed that higher working alliance scores had a positive impact on perceived depression reduction, whereas lower real relationship scores also had a positive effect. To further understand these findings, in-depth interviews with 16 participants who reported significant depression reduction were analyzed using Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR), identifying two categories: “accepting relationship” and “task-oriented relationship.” The findings provide insights into counseling relationship factors influencing outcomes in depression counseling.