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?
Possible Advantages
You may find the process of communicating from your own protected safe space very helpful. Some clients say they actually find it easier to talk about some things when they're not the in the same room as their therapist (although this may not be the case for you).
I may be able to offer you more flexibility online, for example if you have to change location for any reason, you'll still be able to continue with your sessions, as long as you have access to your device.
ACCESSABILITY
Online counselling overcomes barriers that may limit access. For example residing in rural or remote locations, and those that are physically disabled or unable to leave their home, can also easily access such services with little inconvenience.
CONVENIENCE
Online counselling provides an opportunity to reach a larger geographical region within the UK. (Please note that my legal and professional jurisdiction is for the UK only. This means that I do not take enquiries from outside the UK).
Online counselling can be a positive alternative for individuals who may find it uncomfortable to talk to about their problems face to face with a counsellor, or who are suffering from social phobias, agro phobia or anxiety.
Online counselling allows access in private without having to travel to a session.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Online counselling takes place within a secure, encrypted environment for confidentiality and safety.
I offer Zoom for audio and video counselling.
ANONYMITY
Online counselling provides a level of anonymity which offers a non-threatening engagement which can be less inhibiting for those who find face to face contact more challenging.
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.