With cyberspace playing more of an active role in people’s lives, online counselling (or e-counselling) is an innovative and modern method of support. Many of us use the web for social networking, shopping and entertainment, so why not get some support this way too?

What is Online Counselling or e-counselling?

Online Counselling takes place through the internet via email exchange or Zoom, and is similar to face-to-face therapy in that it’s non-judgmental and confidential. You may prefer Online Counselling or e-counselling for a variety of different reasons such as disability, social phobia, busy schedules or distance.

E-counselling can be either long-term or short-term, depending on the issue you bring and what is appropriate for you. At the beginning of counselling, we will agree a suitable number of sessions and will then review them accordingly. The Online Therapy Institute can provide you with further information about the nature of online counselling.

How it works and how to get started

In the first instance, please email me with a brief message (up to 100 words) about what issue you would like to bring to counselling and I will respond with a synopsis of how I think we could work together free of charge. If we agree that my services are likely to be of help to you, I will ask you to complete an Online Counselling Assessment and will ask you to read and agree to an Online Counselling Contract after which counselling can begin.

How will counselling sessions work online?

I will email you an Online Counselling Assessment form to complete and suggest that you return all completed forms via secure mail. I will then assess whether e-counselling is appropriate for your needs. If I feel that e-counselling will be of benefit to you, I will allocate a regular appointment time once a week and will ask you to send your email at least 24 hours before your appointment time. If emails are received after this time, I cannot guarantee a reply at the set appointment time.

Please note that Online Counselling may not be appropriate for all issues brought to counselling. In such cases, every effort will be made to refer you to more suitable support.

Confidentiality and Privacy

The Online Counselling I provide is private and confidential, adhering to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy ethical framework and also the Guidelines for Online Counselling and Psychotherapy. Please ensure your emails are secure; I strongly advise that you do not use public computers or a computer someone else has access to. Safe-mail offer free encrypted webmail via an email account which can give further security and confidentiality. Further guidance regarding confidentiality and privacy can be found in the Online Counselling Contract.

Technology breakdown

In the event of technical hitches, it might not be possible to respond at the agreed time to your email. In such cases I will telephone you to arrange a suitable alternative. You will not be charged for this session.