Online therapy
About online therapy
Online therapy, also known as teletherapy or telehealth, refers to providing mental health services and support over the internet. This form of therapy allows you to receive professional counselling and therapy services through video calls, phone calls, messaging, or other online communication platforms.
Benefits of online therapy
Online therapy can be especially beneficial for people who may have difficult accessing traditional in-person therapy due to various reasons such as location, mobility issues and scheduling conflicts
Convenience
One of the primary benefits of online counselling is its convenience. You can attend therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home, or any location with an internet connection, eliminating the need to travel to the therapist’s office. This can be particularly helpful if you have a busy schedule, mobility issues, or limited access to transport.
Flexibility
Online counselling offers more flexibility in scheduling appointments, making it easier for you to find a time that works best for you. You direct your counselling by selecting the method of communication you feel most comfortable. If you prefer, you can choose to work with audio only, and not switch on your camera.
Anonymity and privacy
Online counselling offers a level of anonymity and privacy that may make it easier for you to open up and share personal information. This can be especially beneficial for people who feel stigmatized or embarrassed about seeking therapy.
Increased comfort
Some people may find it more comfortable communicating with a therapist through online platforms, as it can feel less intimidating than face-to-face interactions. This increased sense of comfort can help you open up more easily and engage more effectively in therapy.
Cost effective
Online therapy can be more cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for expenses related to commuting or travelling.
Continuity of care
Online counselling can provide continuity of care if you need to travel frequently or relocate, as you can continue your therapy sessions with the same therapist regardless of your location.
Privacy
Secure inscription software offers confidentiality and peace of mind. If you choose online counselling, you will be guided through setting up your own encrypted account. Encrypted platforms (e.g. Zoom, MS Teams, or Google Meet) enable you to see your counsellor from your mobile phone or computer.
Having therapy online means that there is no chance that you may be seen entering the clinic. Access to counselling may also be more immediate, especially with online platforms.
Things to consider when choosing online counselling
While online therapy can be effective for many people, it’s important to consider factors such as privacy, security, and the quality of the therapeutic relationship when choosing an online therapy provider.
It’s also essential to ensure that the platform used for online therapy sessions complies with relevant privacy and confidentiality regulations to protect the client’s personal information.
Before choosing online counselling, it’s a good idea consider:
- Are you comfortable using internet technology?
- Would you prefer to see your counsellor face to face?
- Do you feel your situation is too complex to discuss via the internet? (With online counselling, there are no non-verbal cues or body language for you or the counsellor to read; this can lead to misunderstanding).
- Is there a suitable space that you can use privately without interruption?
Informed consent
Online counselling is not sufficient support if you feel you are in crisis. Signs of crisis may be feelings of wanting to commit suicide or harm yourself or another. In this case, please consider contacting your local accident and emergency department at your nearest hospital and ask to speak to someone from the crisis team.
If, at any point during online therapy you need emergency support, the therapist may ask for your consent to contact your GP, or recommend alternative avenues of support other than online counselling.
How online therapy can help you
Overall, online therapy can be a convenient and effective option for individuals seeking mental health support and counselling services, offering a flexible and accessible way to access therapy from the comfort of your own home or any location with an internet connection.
Mental health support
During your online therapy sessions, I make use various therapeutic approaches and techniques to help you address a wide variety of mental health concerns. These include stress, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, low self-esteem, negative behaviours, problems at work or in the home, family conflict, health concerns, and relationship difficulties.
Have a question about online therapy?
If you have a question about online therapy, please call or email me and I will get back to you within 24 hours.
How to book a session
You can send me a message using the contact form.