10 tips for online counselling and therapy

Here are 10 top tips and things to consider when using Zoom, VSee or other online platforms for therapy sessions.

1. Close other internet-using programs

You may not be using them right now, but they will be using some of your available internet resources, which can cause the connection to be problematic. For example, browsers, other online communication tools, and cloud backup can slow your system down. Other devices connected to your internet source will also slow things down.

2. Get the lighting right

You need to be seen, and having good lighting can make all the difference. Choose a location with good natural light, where possible.

3. Interruptions

Put a 'do not disturb' sign on the door, put your mobile out of reach and on silent, and switch off anything that alerts you to messages on your screen. This is your time, you need to remove the possibility of distraction… including the cat!

4. What’s the picture like?

You should have at least your head and shoulders in the picture, and be sitting comfortably. Think of a passport photo.

5. It’s often a good idea to wear headphones

Headphones create an extra level of confidentiality and stop any echoing. Having the headphones on can bring you into the session.

6. Can you be overheard?

Because if you can, or even wonder if you can be, that won’t work. You need to know that your session is confidential.

7. Have a backup

If all else fails (technically), you and your therapist should have a plan. When working online, if I experience technical issues, I will contact my clients on their landline or mobile.

8. Research and know the level of confidentiality offered by the technology you are using

Find out if your chosen online platform provider offers the right level of confidentiality for you and your clients. Google will help you find this information and the technology provider’s privacy statement.

9. Take a break

When people come to face-to-face therapy, they often have a bit of time to process the session, which can be the journey home or to work. When they do a session online at home or work, however, they often go straight back into their day.

Try to have a bit of a break between your session and being pulled back into your day, if you can.

10. Share your concerns

If you are concerned about any aspect of your therapy, including the medium you are using, talk with your therapist. It's good to share your concerns.

If you need to talk to someone, search now to find an online counsellor. You can filter your results to find the professional that resonates with you.