Examination of “Team Play” in LINE Counseling

Abstract

Counseling using LINE, the most popular messaging application in Japan, are text-based and conducted remotely, and counselors are encouraged to work with a team of several people. However, some disadvantages related to group dynamics have been pointed out. The purpose of this study was to investigate the subjective experiences of counselors by focusing on their peer relationships, and to examine the ideal form of functional team play. The method of analysis was the Modified Grounded Theory Approach (M-GTA) based on semi-structured interview data from 14 counselors. The results showed that the process of comparing and being influenced by other counselors' logs data led to either functional or dysfunctional team play. For functional team play, it was necessary to create an atmosphere that was easy to communicate. In summary, it is important to build a relationship of trust based on expertise and emotional relationship, and to respect each counselor's counseling response while exchanging their opinions.