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. Here are the key benefits of online therapy:
1. 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.
Online counselling 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 stigmatised or embarrassed about seeking therapy.
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.
4. 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.
5. Cost effective
Online therapy can be more cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for expenses related to commuting or travelling.
6. 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.
6. 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.
Face-to-face vs remote
- Some information is lost when conducting therapy via video conferencing services (e.g. body language).
- Internet connection problems or low internet speeds may cause interruptions in the session or result in reduced audio or video quality.
- Additional precautions may need to be taken to ensure privacy and confidentiality (e.g. making sure nobody around you can hear what you’re discussing during the session).
Book a remote/web based counselling session
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.
I offer counselling remotely (via a secure online video-calling platform). If you have any questions about online therapy or would like to book, feel free to reach out to me via the contact form and I will respond as soon as possible.