Using the Delphi Technique: Experience from the world of counselling and psychotherapy

Background: Delphi studies have been popular in the health and social care domain for some time, particularly within nursing. They are used to elicit views and opinions from experts in the field on specific topics, without the need for face‐to‐face interviews. Focus: This paper brings Delphi methodology to the attention of potential researchers in the counselling and psychotherapy field, who may not have previously considered Delphi methodology, describing the researcher's experience of using a Delphi study through the media of electronic mail, and incorporating participant feedback. Aims: To discuss the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the complexities and limitations of the Delphi methodology. I will outline previous recommendations from Delphi researchers and offer further suggestions based on my experience of completing a Delphi study.