What is online counselling?

Online counselling is a way for you to engage in counselling using Internet technology such as Zoom or another encrypted video or audio approach. You direct your counselling by selecting the method of communication you feel most comfortable with. You chose the time, the place and the pace of your counselling to suit your needs.

Webcam or audio counselling

Zoom is a way for you to see your counsellor face to face from your computer whilst engaging in therapy. Should you chose Zoom counselling, you will be guided through setting up your own encrypted Zoom account and we will meet on Zoom at a time that you have previously arranged. Being able to see your counsellor gives you more of the benefits you get from face to face counselling but with the convenience of online therapy. By talking you hear tone of voice, which is a way to convey empathy, and by video you see non-verbal communications such as facial expressions. If you wish you can chose to only work with audio through Zoom and no video camera would then be needed.

Benefits

Counselling therapy from your own home at a time that suits you
Secure encryption software offers confidentiality and peace of mind
No chance that you may be seen entering the counsellors practice
When using email or online chat, you are able to review what you are saying before sending
Therapy at a time, place and pace that suits you
Some find it easier to express their feelings by writing it down
Access to counselling may be more immediate
Flexibility to choose the technology you feel is best for you: email or webcam

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Are you comfortable using Internet technology?
Would you prefer to see your counsellor face to face?
Do you feel you can express your feelings well using words?
Do you feel your situation is too complex to discuss via the Internet?
Is there a computer terminal that you can use privately without interruption?
There are no nonverbal cues or body language for you or the counsellor to read this can lead to misunderstanding.