What is online therapy?
Online therapy is simply counselling that takes place remotely using technology, rather than meeting in person. It can offer the same professional support as face-to-face counselling, but in a way that's often more flexible and convenient.
Psychotherapist Sarah Wooster UKCP reg. MSc Integrative Psychotherapy, Dip. Counselling, explains the benefits of online counselling, how it differs from in-person therapy and how to find a therapist who is right for you.
Is online therapy effective?
While some experts believe the efficacy of online therapy is not as strong as face-to-face, there is mounting evidence to suggest that the outcome of these methods can be as effective as in-person counselling for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. Studies have suggested that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be as effective for panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalised anxiety disorder.
Remember to give your telephone and online sessions time. Like face-to-face counselling, it can take a while to adapt to the process and for you and your therapist to develop a rapport with each other... The most important thing is that you have reached out for help.
- Rebecca Morgan, Four tips for getting the most out of online and telephone counselling.
What is video counselling?
An increasingly popular option for those who can't make face-to-face counselling sessions is video call counselling. This enables you to video chat in real-time with your counsellor online. There are several programmes and apps you can use for this.
Video counselling lets you connect with a counsellor while attending sessions from the comfort of your own home. It can also make it easier to access support if you're travelling, have mobility concerns, or want to work with a counsellor based elsewhere.
How does video counselling work?
Usually, you will contact a counsellor via email or telephone in the first instance to arrange an initial consultation. Together you will plan a suitable time for sessions and discuss why you are seeking counselling. During your initial consultation, you can check that everything is working correctly and that you feel comfortable receiving counselling in this way. This is also your opportunity to get to know your counsellor and ensure that you are happy with their style of working.
During sessions, ensure you are in a comfortable position and in a room where you won’t be disturbed. Regarding payment, the counsellor may ask you to pay via a secure online payment before the session, or they may ask for card details at the end.
What is online chat counselling?
This form of counselling is carried out at a prearranged time using an instant messenger service, allowing you to receive an instant real-time response.
While email counselling can be very beneficial, the instant feedback obtained from online chat counselling can be comforting for people who wish to interact and respond with their therapist immediately. Similar to email counselling, online chat counselling is often more accessible and convenient than face-to-face counselling. It also gives you the option of remaining anonymous.
How does online chat counselling work?
If you have decided that online chat counselling is an avenue you would like to explore, get in touch with your chosen counsellor to arrange a mutually convenient time for you to ‘meet’ online. At the chosen time slot, both you and your counsellor will log on to a predetermined chat room (which will be secure and confidential), so that they can exchange instant messages for the agreed length of the session.
As with all forms of counselling, certain details will need to be confirmed before the online therapy begins. This may be done over the phone, via email or using instant messenger.
Whichever type of online counselling you choose, take some time to discuss your needs with your counsellor. It's also worth asking about session costs, privacy and confidentiality, how many sessions they recommend, and their cancellation policy.
When people come to face-to-face therapy they often have a bit of time to process the session, this can be the journey home or to work, when they do their session online at home or work, they often go straight back into their day. Try and have a bit of a break between your session and being pulled back into your day.
- Andrew Harvey MBACP (Accred) Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, 10 tips for online counselling.
What is email counselling?
Email counselling is a type of online counselling where you communicate with a qualified counsellor or therapist by email. You'll share what's on your mind in writing, and your counsellor will respond with a thoughtful therapeutic reply.
Some people find it easier to put their thoughts into words by writing them down. Email counselling gives you the time and space to reflect on your feelings before sharing them with your therapist.
One of the benefits of email counselling is that you can write whenever it suits you. This gives you time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings, rather than waiting until your next face-to-face session.
Just knowing there is someone there to receive, acknowledge and respond to your problems without judgement can provide an enormous sense of comfort and support to anyone attempting to overcome a difficult period in their life.
How does email counselling work?
Email counselling usually involves a series of email exchanges between you and your counsellor. Before you begin, you'll often have an initial consultation where you can get to know your therapist, discuss your reasons for seeking support, and ask any questions you may have.
Other details that may be discussed during the initial consultation include:
- Your reason for seeking counselling and the issues that need to be addressed
- Some background information about you
- Guidelines on how many times you can email the counsellor
- The time frame in which you can expect to receive a response
- Fees - what is the cost of each email exchange?
- Privacy and confidentiality policy
- Cancellation policy.
Do I need computer skills for online therapy?
While individuals considering the option of online counselling will need some basic computer skills, you don’t need advanced skills or knowledge to make online, email, or instant chat counselling work for you. The majority of counsellors who offer these services will be able to provide a step-by-step, simple approach to getting started.
Finding an online therapist
Reaching out for support isn't always easy. For many people, speaking to a therapist online can feel like a more comfortable first step. Whether you're looking for flexibility, accessibility or the comfort of speaking from home, online counselling can make professional support easier to access. Take your time to explore therapists, read their profiles and choose someone you feel comfortable talking to.
Search our directory to find a qualified online counsellor that's right for you.
