Online video counselling is growing in popularity. It offers access to therapy with a wider range of therapists. It can feel helpful to pick a therapist from outside your own area, to protect your privacy. Some clients find it easier to open up through a screen, although not everyone feels comfortable with the idea at first, most clients forget about the screen quickly. 

In most ways online counselling is just the same as face to face therapy. Confidentiality and boundaries are just as important, with a clear contract for weekly, regular, sessions. Payment is done by bank transfer before each session.

You must be sure that you have a private space, where you won’t be disturbed or feel overheard. A good internet connection is essential, so that communication is good and a trusting relationship can be formed. I see my online clients from my counselling room/office and won’t allow interruptions or distractions, just as I wouldn’t allow them for face to face clients.

I see clients from all over the country and sometimes from abroad. 

Teenagers take to online counselling very well, perhaps because they are so much more comfortable with the digital world. It can be very helpful for families to know that their daughter or son is able to access counselling, safely and independently, rather than needing to be driven. Arranging privacy at home is imperative and young people may need support with finding a time and place when the family is out, or not able to overhear.