Sally Moore (MBACP) of Essence Counselling & Psychotherapy is an experienced and qualified Counsellor and is in advanced psychotherapy training. Here she shares with unLTD how technology has helped open up online counselling in the ‘new normal’
I miss my counselling room. It is a space for people who put aside an hour each week to focus on themselves and issues that they want to address, away from the hubbub of life and work. But mostly, I miss meeting my clients in-person.
I prefer to meet people in-person and as a counsellor, I was initially sceptical about online therapy, until I began to receive enquiries from abroad and decided to train and give it a go. I was soon offering online therapy as part of my private practice, and so felt prepared when all counselling had to be moved online due to COVID-19.
Much has been written about ways in which technology disconnects us, but our ‘new normal’ has shown us new ways of being. Technology has become a powerful tool for interpersonal connection throughout social distancing.
Are you or someone you know considering online counselling or psychotherapy? Here are some of the benefits and things to consider:
Benefits
Accessibility – if you are unable to attend therapy in-person, due to mobility or illness or working away, having access to online therapy means that you can still talk to a trained professional and get the support that you need.
Convenience – online therapy can save you time and expenses because you won’t need to travel.
Continuity – if you’re already having counselling, and unable to attend in-person, online sessions will allow you to continue without having to pause or end suddenly.
Opening up – some people find it easier to open up online.
Less restrictions – you are not restricted to finding a counsellor in your area. Although if you want to continue therapy in-person once restrictions are lifted, you might still decide to find a local counsellor.
Therapeutic relationship – you can still build a strong therapeutic relationship online, if you find the right therapist for you.
Considerations
Check credentials – as always, make sure you are arranging sessions with a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist.
Confidentiality – make sure that you are in a confidential space where you won’t be overheard.
Equipment – you will need a smart phone, tablet or computer and a reliable internet connection.
Comfort – make sure that you are comfortable; if using a mobile or tablet, propping it up against a surface rather than holding it yourself, will help to prevent aches and pains.
Avoid distractions – turn off notifications on your devices.
Visibility and sound – make sure that you are positioned so that your therapist can see your face, with the light in front of you to avoid being in shadow. Check your microphone and make sure that it is not covered.
Platform – practise using the online platform beforehand if it is new to you to help your first session begin smoothly.
Technology backup plan – usually, your therapist will agree a plan B in case of technology issues.
Find out more: essencecounsellinghub.co.uk
