ABSTRACT
This chapter considers two sets of pragmatic issues involved in computer therapy applications. The first set is concerned with therapeutic variables and client selection. The second set is concerned with economic variables and client selection. Computer therapy applications for therapy modalities as group therapy and family therapy are in an exploratory stage of development. Computer therapy, as a component of a total treatment program, may be useful for certain types of client problems. Client problems that have been evaluated as focal rather than diffuse, precipitated by events rather than of indefinite origin and as encapsulated in an otherwise well functioning person rather than entwined in a poorly functioning person, are most appropriate for assignment to a course of brief and effective computer therapy. The availability of professional counseling and psychotherapy services has been limited by economic factors that restrict the magnitude of professional training and the distribution of professional services.
