Online counselling is not a new concept or setup. Several reputable clinics have been offering it for years now to make counselling more accessible. However, not a lot of people knew about it until recently.
Due to the pandemic, measures to contain COVID-19 like social distancing and stay-at-home orders make it difficult to hold traditional, face-to-face counselling sessions. But foregoing therapy is not a viable choice, especially during this time when people’s mental health is also suffering.
As an alternative, more clinics and counsellors opted to take their services online to ensure that their clients continue to get the help they need during this pandemic.
Online Counselling – Should You Try It?
Admittedly, there are people who remain sceptical about getting online counselling. Some are worried about its effectiveness, while others simply are not comfortable with this setup.
Here’s the thing:
It is perfectly normal to feel uneasy about getting counselling online, especially if you are using this method for the first time. Being uncomfortable is part of the transition, and it is going to disappear after a session or two.
What’s more?
Counselling sessions conducted online are not very different from the traditional ones. While you and the counsellor may not be in the same room, you would still be seeing each other if the session is via video conferencing. The process and the rules observed are also the same as those employed in face-to-face sessions.
In terms of its efficacy, online counselling is as effective as traditional treatments as proven by several studies.
So, don’t think twice about getting online treatment. It may not be the conventional approach, but there is no doubt about its efficacy. Plus, it offers a lot of benefits like making it possible for you to get therapy in the comfort of your home.
Tips on Making Online Counselling Successful
The success of the therapy depends on you and your counsellor. To ensure that you get the most out of the treatment, do the following:
Choose a Reputable Online Counselling Service Provider
Many counsellors provide online treatment, but not all of them are qualified. So, do your due diligence when you choose a counsellor. Gather sufficient information about your prospective therapists before picking one.
Make sure that she has the credentials required to work as a counsellor. It is also important that she is trained and experienced in providing the treatment you need – be it bereavement, depression or anxiety counselling.
On top of having the essential qualifications, the counsellor should have a reputation for rendering professional service.
Pick a Platform that Works Best for You
Online counselling is conducted using different methods – voice call (via the Internet), video conferencing, chat and email. What platform do you think is best for you?
Treatment through a video call or conference is what is highly recommended. It is the closest setup to a face-to-face therapy session.
But not everyone may be comfortable with this platform, especially those who are getting treatment for the first time. Some may find it easier to open up or talk when no one is watching them. There are also other clients who are better at expressing their feelings through writing.
It is imperative that you choose a platform that enables you to communicate freely. Remember, how much you are able to share or divulge is critical to the success of the therapy.
Find a Good Spot and Time
One of the advantages of online counselling is that you get to stay in a place that you are comfortable in during the session. However, this could also be a disadvantage if the setting doesn’t give you the privacy you need.
For the treatment to proceed properly, you must choose a spot in your house where you can talk without worrying about other people hearing you. It should be a place which is quiet and free from distractions.
Also, you need to pick a good time. This means that each session should be scheduled at a time when you can devote your full attention.
Therapy requires focus and hard work for it to be effective. Hence, you cannot get counselling while doing other activities if you want to reap the benefits of the treatment.
Prepare for Each Session
It is not enough that you have an excellent counsellor for the treatment to work. You also have to do your part.
Aside from giving each session your full attention, you have to prepare ahead of time. Write down the queries or concerns you have before your treatment. If your counsellor gives you homework, make sure you do it.
Always keep in mind what the goal of the therapy is. See to it that you are doing what’s necessary to reach them.
Are you looking for a reputable online counselling provider in Ireland? Access Counselling has qualified counsellors who are experienced in providing treatment using different online platforms. Call us on 015240708 or visit our website to schedule an online counselling session.
