What is Online Counselling and How Does Online Counselling Work?
Online counselling involves having therapy, with each session usually lasting 50 minutes, via either telephone or video link using software such as Skype, Zoom or Google Meet. Therapy works in exactly the same way as face-to-face therapy but it is just carried out remotely. When working with me, you have the option of having online counselling sessions on the same day and time each week. Positively, online therapy can be flexible and you can choose a day and time each week to have a session that suits you and your therapist will try to accommodate this as far as possible. Online therapy has been happening for some time now and growing in popularity, long before Covid-19 entered the scene.
Is Online Counselling Effective?
You might be concerned that therapy won’t be effective if you cannot see your therapist face-to-face. This isn’t the case! Several studies have shown online counselling to be just as effective as face-to-face therapy. Some studies have even demonstrated online counselling to be more effective than face-to-face therapy with progress being maintained over a longer period. If you are worried that your bond with your therapist will not be as strong, be assured that studies show that there is no difference in the bond that is formed between individuals with their therapists when having therapy face-to-face compared to online therapy. Moreover, one study found that individuals rated their online therapists as more “personal” than individuals who saw therapists face-to-face.
Is Online Therapy Safe?
It can be tricky to get your head around all the different terms for therapists and knowing if they have the right level of education, qualification, experience and expertise to help you. At Therapy Central we have a team of highly qualified and experienced Clinical and Counselling Psychologists who have been thoroughly vetted so you are in safe hands if you decide to receive online therapy in our service!
Some people can be concerned about privacy issues in regards to online counselling. I use video platforms that are more privacy compliant.
What are the Benefits of Online Counselling?
There are several benefits to online counselling, some of which make it superior to face-to-face therapy:
More Convenient: You save time and money by not having to travel to meet your therapist.
More Flexible: You can choose from having regular sessions on the same day and time each week/fortnightly. Alternatively, you can choose from a list of available therapy slots that your therapist has each week/fortnight.
More Comfortable: Some people find that they feel more comfortable opening up when having therapy online.
Avoid Long Wait Times: If seeking help via the NHS there can be very long waiting times for therapy, often at least a year. At present, many NHS services are not prepared for remote working and, in addition to increased demand upon their services during this stressful period, the wait time for therapy is likely to increase.
If you would like to consider online counselling with me please contact me via email: contact@hertstherapypractice.com or kindly complete the webform.
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