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How to know if online counselling is right for you
This article provides you with insight into online counselling, including the benefits, and limitations of Telehealth and what to expect during an online session. This information will help in finding out if it is right for you.
What are the advantages of online counselling
One in three women in Australia are living with anxiety. Anxiety can affect your self-worth, confidence and impact your relationships. Counselling can help you to overcome some of the stresses and help build your self-esteem so you can feel 'you' again. Even the toughest of us need mental health support during challenging stages in life. It is normal to seek counselling support to give you a helping hand during difficult times.
Since Covid, the online world has exploded, with more people working from home than ever before. It is an efficient way to connect with others. Some of the advantages of online is its flexibility. It doesn't matter where you live, you can seek the help of a professional anywhere.
With your busy life, work commitments and a heap of other tasks, it can be difficult to provide yourself with the essential time required for self-care and therapy. One of the main excuses people put off seeking support is lack of time or finances. If this sounds familiar, read below for some of the positives to taking counselling online.
#1 Convenience: Online counselling gives you flexibility with time, often having evening or weekend appointments available. The help is literally at your fingertips.
#2 Affordability: Online therapy can often be more affordable than face-to-face as travel costs and room rental fees are not factored into the price.
#3 Save time: You will also have more time by saving precious minutes commuting to and from your session, finding car parking or catching public transport. You can use this time to focus on yourself. With online therapy accommodating to fit your busy schedule, you can find the time to prioritise your healing.
#4 Flexibility: You can still have an appointment if you are away on business trips or need extra support during excursions. Having appointments during lunch breaks is even possible.
#5 Comfort: You can have sessions in the comfort and familiarity of your own home, while out for a walk or in a private meeting room during your lunch break.
#6 Access: Online counselling can be a lifesaver for people who live in rural areas if you don't have assess to transport or have hectic work schedules.
#7 Privacy: Online counselling can take away the worry about bumping into anyone you know, if you are visiting a clinic.
However, saying that, online counselling is not for everyone. During face-to-face sessions, therapists can pick up on more body language and non-verbal cues, plus it offers a neutral location for sessions, which some people prefer. Read on to find out what happens during a Telehealth appointment.
What happens during a Telehealth appointment
Counselling can help with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-worth and relationship difficulties. Online counselling is done via Zoom, which is encrypted and secure. They can be done on your laptop or on your phone. We see each other face-to-face, and my goal is to make you feel safe and secure to allow you to discuss some of the challenges you want to work on. The first session is a 'discovery session', unpacking the issues impacting the quality of your life and discussing the goals you would like to focus on during your counselling journey. The counselling plans are tailored to your individual needs. The following sessions are focused on each of your personal goals. I provide resources and tools that you can implement between your sessions to enhance your progress to recovery.
Who benefits from online counselling
Many women need counselling and support but don't take the time necessary to engage with therapy. This is often due to being 'too busy' and 'not having enough time'. Telehealth or online therapy - as it is referred to - can be flexible around your schedule.
Studies show that Telehealth/online therapy results are about the same as face-to-face therapy.
If you are struggling, please don't hesitate to reach out to me so that you can get back on track and lead the healthy, happy and fulfilling life that you deserve.
Related Article: 5 Tools to help you with Anxiety
Related Article: How counselling can improve emotional wellbeing