Online Counseling
What is online Counselling?
Online counselling is the same service that you might expect if you saw someone face to face, but it is via Zoom.
It is ‘live’ face time, but with the advantage that you do not have to travel to the appointment. Indeed, you do not even have to be in the same country. For couples juggling with work and child care this can be hugely beneficial, as you can access the service from different places. You can access the service in a work lunch break, from a car park or even whilst on holiday. For many clients, being able to access counselling from the comfort of their own ‘safe space’ lends itself to feeling safer and within the counselling relationship.
Often when in a state of stress and anxiety, it is hard to get out how you feel, or take in the conversation that has taken place in the counselling room. Indeed, some clients find it difficult to talk about how they feel, but may find it easier to write their feelings down. Emailing gives you time to think about what you want to say, and how you want to say it, drafting and re drafting until you feel it is the way you want it to be. You can then read, re-read and digest your counsellor’s reply. With the advantage of being able to have a record of what has been said and can refer to at any time in the future.
Another advantage is having the convenience of being able to write your email, and read the reply at a time that suits you, in the comfort of your own home.
Skype/Live Chat
Skype is ‘live’ face time, but with the advantage that you do not have to travel to the appointment. Indeed, you do not even have to be in the same country. This can also be useful in Couple Counselling, when appointments would otherwise be cancelled as one partner can’t be there physically. I can set up skype, so that both partners can be in the room, one physically, and one on Skype.
Live Chat is a version of instant messaging. This can be used independently, or with face time. For young people this is often a preferred option as they are less comfortable with face to face talking.
Both these options are by appointment only at a mutually agreed time.
Interested in Online Counselling? Here is what to do now.
Please phone, message or email to let me know you would like to book in for a consultation. Once we have agreed on a convenient day and time, you will be sent a confirmation email along with a form to read through and complete. The day before any appointment you will receive a zoom link. At the allotted time you just click on the link and session will begin. It is that easy.
Frequently Asked Questions?
Young adults
Adults
Couples
Families
Emotionally
Online counselling works in the same way as face-to-face counselling does. The counsellor creates a safe, confidential emotional space for you to talk through any issues that are creating emotional challenges for you in your day-to-day life.
Practically
Sessions are arranged at a mutually agreed time and will take place through Zoom. You chose where you want to be in your session.
Yes, online counselling can be highly effective for many people. It offers the same professional support and therapeutic guidance as face-to-face counselling while providing greater flexibility and convenience.
Online counselling can support a wide range of emotional and personal difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, relationship issues, workplace stress, low self-esteem, emotional trauma, and life changes.
Counselling is generally confidential, meaning what you share with your therapist is private, with only limited exceptions for safety or legal reasons.
These exceptions include but are not exhaustive:
- If there is a reason to believe there is a safeguarding concern for a vulnerable child or adult.
- If there is reason to suspect serious criminality.
• If there is reason to suspect serious intent to self-harm.
Expert Therapists
Lorraine O’Brien
Lead Therapist