What You Need To Know Before Starting Online Counseling
As a therapist, I was shocked to learn recently when one of my colleagues presented a training regarding therapy online that this technology has been around since the 1950’s. Michelle pointed out some of the benefits to us as therapists that I think are worth passing along to you as a new potential client of online counseling. Here are some things that my clients and I have learned together over the last few months that might help you if you are considering online counseling:- Ask your therapist to help you with instructions and download the application prior to your counseling session.
- Does your location have good connectivity with the internet? If not in most areas there is a library or church nearby that has good connectivity and privacy that you can use for free.
- Do have an area at your home where you can have privacy?
- Ensure you and your therapist have an alternative means of communication lined up if there is a bad connection or emergency.
- Communication online is different than in person, there is an emphasis on improved verbal communication as non-verbal communication is vastly reduced.
Five Major Benefits of Online Counseling
Accessibility
No matter where you are as a client in the U.S. if you have Wi-Fi and a laptop and or phone, you can access your therapist. For many folks in rural areas, they have had to travel to larger cities to connect with a therapist.Affordability
This form of counseling requires less time, travel and office space expense which can be passed along to you the client in more affordable rates.Anonymity
Clients no longer have to worry about going to an office where the public knows your business. Our application for online counseling is called Vsee and it is HIPPA secure and approved which adds another layer of anonymity that Skype or Google talk would not.Adaptability
In our fast-paced world our schedules change a lot and online counseling allows therapist and the client to be very adaptable to times that work well for both and in this therapist opinion reduces cancellations.Acceptability
The research shows that clients are receiving this new form of counseling well and that counseling quality can be achieved online with a positive mindset from the therapist and the client.Sources
- Telemental Health Training- Presented by Michelle K. Forgey, LMHC, LPC, RPT, MA- 5.2.2017
- At the very least, telehealth services generally reduce the burdens associated with geographic distance, and beyond this they receive good grades from clients and clinicians in quite a variety of environments (Gibson, 2000; McCarthy, Kulakowski, & Kenfield, 1994; Oberkirch, 2000; Shore et al., 2006; Smith, 1998; Stamm, 1998; Stamm & Pearce, 1995; Whitten, Zaylor, & Kingsley, Zaylor.