Table 1 Description of attributes and levels

1) Recommendation

From a colleague; from a professional association; none

This feature refers to a recommendation that you received for the online component (tool or therapy program).

2) Proven effectiveness

9 out of 10 clients; 8 out of 10 clients; 7 out of 10 clients

This attribute describes the clinical effectiveness of the online component in comparison to no therapy based on the first studies, e.g., in the form “For 9 out of 10 clients, the online component (tool or program) was clinically effective”. Since 100% effectiveness has not yet been proven, the following options can be chosen: 7 out of 10, 8 out of 10, and 9 out of 10 clients.

3) Time ratio of face-to-face and online sessions

20:80; 50:50; 80:20

This attribute relates to the time invested and describes the percentage (%) ratio in which personal sessions and an online component (tool or program) are combined in an individual therapy process for each client.

Examples are 20:80, 50:50 or 80:20, where the first number reflects face-to-face sessions and the second reflects the client’s independent work with an online component.

4) Reimbursement for the use of an online component

Proportional to time investment; proportional to time investment + lump sum

This attribute describes the reimbursement model for the use of BC:

Proportional to the time invested for the online component per therapy block (preparation, follow-up work, supervision of homework, etc.) or rather proportional to the time invested for the application of an online component plus a lump sum.