A Delphi Discussion Regarding the Collaboration Between Therapists and Family Life Educators Regarding Online Interventions for Adolescents

Abstract

The current study utilizes a Delphi methodology in order to examine the perceptions of therapists and family life educators regarding collaboration. The research consisted of two rounds of data gathering, with 6 participants in round one and 5 participants in round two. Participants were primarily certified family life educators (CFLE) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), with some participants holding both professional designations. Qualitative responses within round one were analyzed by identifying core themes and ideas. Then, the participants responded to Likert scales, rank order scales, and qualitative questions regarding the results from round one. In the third and final round, researchers provided participants with a write up of the results from round two and provided an opportunity for participants to respond to the information. Results indicated that participants are generally open to the idea of collaboration but are unsure about how this would look like in an online setting. Participants designated several concerns, methods for engaging with adolescents, and relevant topics. Future research will likely need to more specifically address the roles of the various professions and collaboration on specific issues.