Comparing Online Counseling Outcomes: Metaverse and Zoom‐Based Videoconferencing Psychotherapy

ABSTRACT We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of two online counseling modalities, metaverse counseling (MC) and Zoombased videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP), comparing therapeutic changes and outcomes between the two. Thirty‐one students participated (16 MC, 15 VCP). Data analysis included mixed ANOVA and multilevel modeling to evaluate changes over sessions (Level 1) while also considering between‐client variables (Level 2). We observed significant reductions in psychological symptoms across time points, with no significant differences between modalities. While both counselors and clients reported stable levels of working alliance and therapeutic presence over time, further analysis revealed that modality moderated the trajectory of the working alliance for counselors. Specifically, VCP counselors reported a steady increase in the working alliance as sessions progressed, while metaverse counselors exhibited a slower rate of improvement. Thus, while both digital counseling formats suggest preliminary support for effectiveness, the nature of engagement and relational development may vary depending on the platform.