What is online or telephone counselling?
Online counselling is counselling over the internet using video platforms such as Zoom, email or online chat. Telephone counselling works in the same way and is an alternative option.
What I offer
At present I am only offering online sessions. I usually use Zoom for this but may consider other platforms if you have a preference. The other options mentioned are available. Therefore, while I don’t offer these, you can look for therapists offering this way of working by checking their personal profiles on their websites or on counselling directories they subscribe to.
I am currently only able to provide counselling and psychotherapy to UK residents.
Video counselling
The video platform I usually use is Zoom, however, I am willing to discuss different platforms if you have a preference. Video offers a way for us to see each other face to face from your computer. This may feel a little strange at first, but most people find it just as supportive and effective as in person therapy, soon become comfortable with it and find it offers an easy, convenient way to access counselling and psychotherapy. Using video means you hear all the normal verbal communication and also see all of those non-verbal clues that support effective communication. However, if you find this way of working is not for you it is still possible to work on-line, with the video camera turned off (Zoom) so it becomes very similar to a phone call with the security of an internet connection.
If you are not familiar with Zoom I can guide you through downloading the app and setting it up. It’s free to use, and very straightforward to download and set up. Alternatively, Zoom has detailed guidance on joining zoom meetings on their website.
Once we have arranged a time to meet I will send you an email which will include a link to our zoom meeting.
Email counselling
Counselling using email offers you the opportunity to consider what you wish to say before you send. The elapsed time between exchanges means that you also have time to reflect on the information you have received before you reply. The time delay between your mail and the return mail means this kind of counselling may not be appropriate for those who would like a more immediate response. I do not offer this but you may find therapists who do by browsing counselling directory websites.
Online counselling chat room
With online chat room you are directed to a secure login page that takes you to an encrypted area where you meet your counsellor at a time that was prearranged and agreed beforehand. You do not need a webcam for this, and you may chose to remain anonymous should you wish. I do not offer this but you may find therapists who do on counselling directory websites.
Things to consider
Online and telephone counselling both offer certain benefits however there are also limitations . It is worth considering both when deciding which type of therapy will best suit your needs.
- bullet Convenience and comfort, counselling happens in a place of your own choosing at an agreed time.
- bullet Anonymity, no chance that you may be seen entering the counsellor’s practice.
- bullet Access to counselling may be quicker.
- bullet Flexibility to choose the technology you feel is best for you: email, live chat, Video or telephone.
- bullet Is there a computer or phone you can use privately without interruption?
- bullet Is your device as up to date as possible with all software updates, virus checkers, firewalls, password protection etc to ensure that it is as safe and secure as possible?
- bullet Do you have sufficient bandwidth for the platform you choose? For example, if video calling, you may need to ensure that all other use of your internet is shut down.
- bullet Using a personal, password protected WiFi. Using public WiFi may mean our conversation could be open to others to listen to or join.
- bullet We will have a backup plan in case the connection is lost or breaks down.
- bullet Do you have a private space/room where you will not be interrupted or overheard, can the door be closed if needed?
- bullet Can you make arrangements for the care of children and pets, so that you can reasonably expect not to be interrupted?
- bullet Are you are able to use your device hands free (we may want to write or draw) while remaining clearly visible?
- bullet What can I see of your home and what is behind you, how comfortable are you that I see those things in your room?
- bullet Are able to turn off radios, televisions, phones or other househuld appliances which may cause a noise and become distracting?
Confidentiality
What we talk about remains confidential. There are a few reasons why we may need to break confidentiality, but you will be made fully aware of these before we begin working together. When working online, or by phone confidentiality is addressed by taking the steps outlined above to ensure you have privacy to talk, are not overheard or recorded and your internet connection is as secure as it can be.
I make brief handwritten notes after each appointment. No identifying names or material is retained on these records as a unique ID number is used to replace such information. These are stored securely in accordance with the GDPR Data Protection Act (for more information please see my privacy statement which will be sent to you if you decide to begin counselling with me). Zoom will store your connection on my password protected computer. Your contact details may be held in the phone I use, which is also kept locked in a drawer in my office and only used for the purposes of calling people I am counselling.
Online Security
All video platforms have some limitations when it comes to confidentiality. These can be explored by visiting the websites of the platforms you wish to consider using. Counselling by Zoom takes advantage of the encrypted services they offer. Access to your online session is password protected and I am able to use additional features to ensure no-one else is able to enter our meeting. I take all reasonable steps to control and protect your confidentiality with the strict measures and procedures I have in place in my own practice. However, you remain responsible for taking your own measures to also protect your confidentiality and privacy. I assume you will take precautions to ensure no-one else can access your sensitive information and I will support you, if needed, to do this.
In an Emergency
Online counselling cannot provide an emergency service when you feel you are in crisis. Signs of crisis may be strong feelings or intentions of suicide or a strong urge to harm yourself or another. In this case, please consider contacting your local accident and emergency department at your nearest hospital and ask to speak to someone from the Crisis Team. If you feel you need immediate assistance you may consider contacting the Samaritans, they are available by telephone on 116 123 or by email to jo@samaritans.org.
Appointments, Payment and Cancellations
Each appointment will last for 50 minutes at an agreed day and time. Once arranged, I shall be available for the whole session. If you are late, I will still have to end the session at the appointed time as I may have a following appointment arranged. However, if you wish to cancel an appointment I would appreciate at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged at the full rate otherwise no charge will me made. Full fees remain payable for missed appointments.
The fee for each appointment is £45. Payment is due with 24 hours of your session using Bank Transfer.
What Next?
I welcome any questions you may have about any of this information, just email your question to me at beverlykidd29@yahoo.com. If you wish to call, I can be contacted on 07598 122049, however I may be unable to answer if I am with other clients. I offer an initial free 30 minute chat so we can get a sense of each other, a feel for whether we could work together and to discuss some basic arrangements. If you would like to take this next step, then please email or phone me. I look forward to hearing from you.