Project VERANDA: Requirement Analysis Survey on Online Therapy Preferences for Stigmatized Groups

What this Trial Is About

This research explores the preferences for online therapy among various stigmatized groups, including individuals with a sexual interest in children (ISIC), transgender and gender-diverse people, sex workers, healthcare workers, those who have experienced child sexual abuse, their therapists, and the general public. The study aims to understand barriers to therapy engagement related to stigma and fears about confidentiality, especially where mandatory reporting laws may discourage treatment seeking. It seeks to identify individual factors influencing therapy preferences to improve wellbeing and reduce harmful behaviors. Participants will complete an anonymous online survey available in German and English. The survey provides simple and detailed study information about data privacy and protection, including encryption and compliance with EU regulations. Consent is given via a checkbox without collecting personal identifiers, and anonymity is preserved by limiting demographic details and disabling tracking technologies. The study was pilot tested for clarity and user experience and is approved by an ethics committee. During participation, individuals provide responses about their therapy preferences and related factors. Researchers will analyze preferences for design features and consultation methods over the study period from May 2025 to May 2026. Data will be stored securely for up to three years and shared only within the project consortium. Participants can expect a fully anonymous process with privacy safeguards and no collection of identifying information.

Project VERANDA: Requirement Analysis Survey