Online counselling is known by many different names including tele-therapy, tele-health, online therapy, video conferencing and video counselling. Online counselling provides exactly the same service as experienced in face to face appointments but uses an online video program. Most people are surprised at how quickly they adjust to the accessing counselling online.
Online counselling is: -confidential -convenient -located in your own home or another location of your choice -time efficient as no travel is required.
Online counselling provides an easy way to access therapy sessions while remaining at home.. However it can also be valuable at other times such as:
if you are experiencing a health condition or chronic pain that makes it difficult to leave your home
if you are a parent of young children or a full-time carer
if you live in a rural or remote location
if you feel uncomfortable, anxious or sensitive in new environments
if you feel more comfortable discussing your concerns in the privacy of your own home
if you are traveling
if you don't have access to transport
if you have limited time. Flexible scheduling enables you to access counseling at a time that is convenient for you such as between meetings, during lunch, or before or after work.
Does online counselling work the same as in person therapy?
Yes. Like traditional face to face therapy, video counselling sessions are provided 'face to face' but using a video platform. We can still see each other but it means we don't need to be in the same place at the same time. Research has shown that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy.
What do I need?
A stable internet connection
A laptop, computer (with an inbuilt or add-on camera), tablet or smartphone.
If using a tablet or smartphone you will need to download an app called 'Zoom'. If using a laptop or computer, no apps or downloads are required.
How does it work?
I will email you a link which you click on at the start of your appointment. When you click on the link it will connect you automatically to the Zoom video platform.
Before the session
Before the start of your session I recommend you take some time to prepare your counselling space so that it is private, as distraction free as possible and comfortable. For example shut the front door, turn off your tv/radio, get a glass of water or cup of tea or coffee. Locate the session link in your appointment confirmation email. Try and be ready a few minutes before the session is due to start.
I live in a different time zone. What do I do?
All online counselling sessions are done from Brisbane, Australia (Australian Eastern Standard Time). If you are located in a different time zone and want to check times in your time zone to help with working out a suitable appointment time you can look this up at:
Like anything new, starting with online therapy might create feelings of anxiety because it feels unknown. That's why for all new online sessions an additional 15 minutes will be provided if required to allow for any additional set up time or trouble shooting that may be needed at the start of the session. I will also call at the beginning of the session if you are unfamiliar with Zoom video calls. Prior to the session you can contact me on 0405 990 765 or email me at [email protected] with any questions you may have about the online counselling process.