In recent years, online counselling has become increasingly easier to access. It's a faster way to access help than by visiting a therapist in person. The current pandemic has meant that most therapists are now working remotely by phone or video chat. Working online, however, can present various challenges and it isn't always suitable for everyone. This blog explores the benefits and drawbacks of working this way in the hope of helping you make up your mind on what's best for you.
What is online counselling?
Online counselling can provide support to a client through the use of apps such as Skype, Zoom or FaceTime without actually meeting in person. Recent advances in the speed at which data transfer occurs have allowed for psychological support through non-face-to-face means (particularly video). Many counsellors including myself also make use of phone calls to provide counselling options.
How to find an online counsellor?
As mentioned, due to the pandemic a great number of counsellors in the UK are working on the internet through Zoom or Skype to help people in many aspects as well as dealing with mental health during lockdown. Internet searches remains one of the easiest ways to find a counsellor to suit your needs including, if necessary, a therapist who is specialising in your issue. You can look specifically for individual counselling practitioners, like myself, or visit practitioner-specific database sites e.g., Anxiety, Stress, Addiction, Anger Management etc.
What are the benefits of online counselling?
There are several advantages to online counselling including:
- the ability to work with a counsellor that is not dependent on your geographic location giving you accessibility to a wider range of practitioners.
- the ability to choose the counsellor with the experience that fits your needs and/or specialises in your issue.
- no travel time.
- a more convenient method of working around existing commitments (e.g., flexible working hours).
- increased ease of working around existing commitments (e.g., working from home).
- helps overcome mobility issues and other medical challenges (e.g. physical disabilities).
Are there any disadvantages to online counselling?
Some experts argue that session quality is negatively impacted in an online setting. If your preference is to work face-to-face, then internet based counselling may not suit you.
Some other disadvantages may include:
- poor internet connection.
- the need for some technological competence.
- if you're not in the UK, there may be legal issues that come with working with a counsellor in the UK.
These are just a few of the issues you may want to consider before working with a counsellor. Please don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with an on the internet based counselling session. There may be other benefits and drawbacks that apply to you, and this blog is not intended to provide an exhaustive overview of online working.
How can you talk to a counsellor online?
The first step is to initiate contact. Feel free to contact me here or by phone for a free, brief, no obligation chat. You can also do a quick google search to find other counsellors you may wish to reach out to. If you want to progress matters after the making contact we will agree a mutually convenient day and time to have an initial session online and the therapeutic process can start.
