Online Counselling - Things to Consider
Do you feel confident using the internet?
Do you have a dedicated place for sessions? A space that is free of distractions, and household noise?
Online Therapy Sessions – What to Expect
Online therapy offers a flexible, confidential, and accessible way to engage in therapeutic support from the comfort of your own space.
Sessions are conducted via a secure video platform and last 50 minutes.
Just like in-person sessions, online therapy provides a structured and supportive environment to explore a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. The format allows for depth and connection while offering the convenience of reducing travel time or location constraints.
Before your first session, you will receive clear guidance on how to access the platform, along with practical tips to help you get the most from your time online. All you need is a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.
Sessions are held weekly (unless otherwise agreed) and are subject to the same ethical standards, confidentiality, and care as in-person therapy.
If you have any concerns about working online or would like to discuss whether this format is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Possible Disadvantages or Difficulties
You may find yourself exploring things that you wouldn't feel able to say when we're together in person. This might lead to unexpectedly heightened emotional responses both during the session and afterwards. It's important to be aware of this and I'll explore this with you regularly with you as a central and on-going part of the process.
TECHNOLOGICAL HICCUPS
Inconsistent internet connection, strength, problems with video chat platforms, frozen screens, echoing, and other variables all contribute to a range of disruptions that can interfere during a counselling session.
Occasionally technological problems can arise which affect the online link. We'll discuss alternative means of contact and have an agreed course of action in case this happens.
You'll be responsible for ensuring privacy at your end. You'll need to be able to shut the door on any noise, ensure that no one interrupts us, and turn off telephones and other forms of contact.
Online Counselling is Not Suitable/ Recommended for Everyone
*Individuals with severe symptoms of a psychological conditions requiring intensive treatment.
*Individuals experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
*People with serious addictions.
IF YOU WANT TO PROCEED
We agree on the date and time of your online session via email.
A few minutes before the session starts, I'll send you an email invitation to join a Zoom meeting. This will contain a link which you can click on. As long as you can see the link has come from my email account at the expected time, this link will be safe.
I HOPE YOU FIND THIS INFORMATION HELPFUL
If you have any concerns you can talk it through with me by email.