Online counselling or E-Counselling is a great option for those whose physical, geographical or time restraints makes it difficult to attend face-to-face counselling sessions. With the improvement in the quality and availability of video conferencing software, online counselling has become the preference for many individuals and couples.
Who can benefit from online counselling?
Online counselling or e-counselling is becoming more and more desirable for those who travel, have hectic or irregular work schedules, but wish to benefit from regular counselling support. It may be that you are sick or physically disabled, live in a rural area or foreign country or just feel more comfortable staying at home. Online video counselling may be the perfect fit for your current lifestyle or situation. If you are a minor you will need signed parental consent to participate in online counselling. This age of consent may differ depending on the location of the counsellor providing service.
What do I need for online counselling?
You will need a computer or laptop that is connected to a good quality high-speed internet connection. You will also need either a built-in or attached camera and microphone for your computer. Then you will need to download the video software program used by the counsellor you will be working with. The counsellor will provide you with their ID name for the program so that you are able to connect with them.
When will online counselling take place?
It is important that you do your homework when selecting an online counsellor. Ensure they have a membership in-good-standing with a credible professional association. Check their educational background, experience, and the type of counselling they provide, etc. Once you find a counsellor that you want to work with you will arrange an appointment with them that is convenient to you both. Keep in mind that your counsellor may be located in another time zone. You will need to confirm this so you can make appropriate adjustments.
Where should counselling take place?
There are two points I wish to mention here:
1. It is important that you set yourself up in a private and quiet place where you will not be interrupted during your session. Turn off your phones, TV, and if there are others in the house ask them not to disturb you during your session.
2. For legal and insurance purposes, the counselling session may be deemed to take place in the legal jurisdiction of the counsellor. Your counsellor should provide you with a written consent form that you will sign at the onset of counselling that lays out clear guidelines in this regard as well as other specifics about counselling. (Disclaimer: no legal advice intended by the writer)
Why use online counselling?
Face-to-face counselling may not be available in your area or perhaps the type of counselling you are looking for is not available where you live. Online counselling gives you a wider range of options as to the type of counsellor you can work with. You may have been considering counselling for a while, but are not comfortable with someone in the town or city you live in. Perhaps an online counsellor was recommended to you by a friend, acquaintance or family member. Online counselling is just like face-to-face counselling, but provides the flexibility you may be looking for.
Considered counselling in the past, but face-to-face sessions were not an option? Give online or e-counselling a try to benefit from the flexibility this type of service will provide.
Heidi Maskell, RPC
Counsellor and Psychotherapist providing online counselling services.
"Strengthening Community through Healthy Relationships"
Online or E-Counselling Services
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