Online Counselling
Sophia Hammoudeh-Mekki MBACP | Integrative Counsellor
Online Counselling
What is online therapy?
Face-to-face counselling isn't the only form of therapy available these days.
I know that most people are more familiar with the conventional setup of meeting face-to-face. However, online counselling has grown rapidly in popularity due to lower wait times, convenience, and often, more comfort.
Online counselling covers a wide range of mediums from telephone chats to video interactions offering the same level of support and confidentiality as face-to-face sessions. It's been around for a while and has only grown in popularity in recent years.
Providing my clients with support, often at a more convenient time to suit their schedule and commitments; online therapy can take place anywhere with a steady connection.
I offer the following online services:
• Tele Counselling
• Video Counselling
What does it involve and what should I expect?
I start by arranging a free initial consultation (just as I do with my face-to-face sessions) before we begin. This provides time to get to know each other a little better, ask questions, and raise any concerns you may have.
During this time, guidelines and expectations will be set around communication, response times, fees, as well as privacy and confidentiality.
Telephone Counselling
Taking place over your phone; and can also be done in addition to face-to-face sessions. As with typical counselling sessions, appointments are pre-scheduled for set times, in which either you or I will call the other to initiate the session for a predetermined length of time (usually 60 minutes).
Video Counselling
Offering many of the benefits of face-to-face counselling with the added convenience of online therapy. Video counselling sessions tend to use a secure platform that I have specifically chosen, combining visual and audio feedback. Many clients feel that conversations can flow more organically through video chat sessions.
Communication Methods
There are so many ways that technology (old and new) enables us to communicate with each other. These are just some of the ways that we can talk.
Pros and Cons of Online Therapy
While the benefits and drawbacks of online counselling can vary between individuals, there are many points worth considering if you are looking to try digital therapy.
The Potential Advantages
Reasons people choose online therapy can include:
Accessibility
- Popular appointment times are available (evenings and weekends). Online counselling may offer more flexibility making it easier for you to gain the support you need when you most need it.
- For potential clients with mobility issues or disabilities that make it stressful or challenging to get to my practice. Those experiencing social phobias, anxiety disorders, or agoraphobia may also find online counselling is more accessible.
- Potential clients that reside a long distance away from my private practice. In another town or city nationally or even in another country internationally.
Convenience
Access support from the comforts of your own home (or wherever you are), without the inconvenience of having to physically travel to your sessions. This can not only save time and money but can also let those living in more rural areas access the support they may well need.
Openness
Some people feel more comfortable opening-up, and discussing sensitive issues through the buffer provided by the screen or phone. For those who may feel particularly nervous or anxious during face-to-face counselling sessions, online therapy can offer an alternative means of support.
Privacy
For those who are worried about others finding out about their treatment; online counselling can feel like it offers a higher level of privacy.
The Potential Disadvantages
Drawbacks for online therapy can include:
A lack of non-verbal feedback
Building the same rapport gained through face-to-face counselling can be tricky for some people. Without the immediate feedback provided by body language or facial expressions, conversations may feel a little more stilted or the intended tone can be missed.
Divided opinions on the effectivity
Expert opinions are split, with many agreeing more research is needed into how effective online therapy is in comparison with face-to face counselling. It is important to remember that different methods can work differently for certain individuals and situations; it’s all about making sure you find what works best for you.
Technology trouble
Internet connection trouble, computer errors, server crashes, network connectivity and dropped calls can all disrupt the flow of the session or create feelings of frustration.
You may also need basic computer literacy skills, as well as a stable internet connection to get the most of your sessions. Whilst I can often talk you through the basics of using unfamiliar video.
Is online therapy right for me?
It is important to find your own comfort zone. There is no right or wrong way to go about it. Remember, its ok to start with one method and switch to an alternative one if you don’t feel comfortable. It's all about you, and making sure that you are finding the best method of communication that works best for you.
How to Book
Please contact me by phone on 07888 87484 or email me on info@stayrootedcounselling.com to book a session.
Alternatively you can use my contact form