Technical Requirements

You will need secure and reliable access to the internet and an internet enabled device with a camera, for example a computer/laptop, tablet or smartphone.  If you are unfamiliar with video-conferencing technology, please do not worry because I will provide you with step-by-step guidance on how to join our online meeting room at the start of therapy.  I will also provide you with full information about how to get the most from our online sessions  We will then continue to meet at a regular agreed time each week. 

Working with technology can very occasionally be problematic, so we will agree a procedure in case of any technical difficulties during our first session, when I will also gently support you through any 'teething' problems with the online process.

Online Safety

Working online poses additional security and confidentiality issues which place responsibilities on us both.  I use Zoom™ video conferencing as my preferred technology.  It is an established and secure platform with end-to-end encryption and is used by many online therapists.  I utilise the waiting room facility and a unique personal meeting code and password for each client.  I will ensure that my devices are secure by employing password protection and up-to-date virus checkers and firewalls.  You will be responsible for the security of your devices.   I also request that you:

• Find a location in which you are alone, safe and comfortable to talk without being overheard.
• Do not undertake the session from a public place or an open plan room. 
• Ensure that you will not be disturbed for the duration of the session.
• Consider using headphones to increase privacy.
• Plan for any dependent or vulnerable members of your household to have care for the duration of our session.
• Turn off other devices, close any open browsers/computer programmes and put your phone on silent during our session.
• Do not record any of our sessions.
• Let me know immediately if you have any concerns that the security of our session is compromised. 
• Be mindful of your own self care and allow yourself some extra time before and after our sessions.

With regard to the last point, I will support you in understanding the importance of self-care when working online.  Early on in therapy we will discuss ways to resource you for this, including allowing some time to reflect and ground yourself, both before and after our sessions, and before re-joining your family, resuming work or going about your day’s tasks.

Suitability and Support

Online therapy, which usually happens once a week, does not provide sufficient support if you are in crisis.  Signs of crisis may be feelings of wanting to harm yourself or someone else, or thoughts of taking your own life.  In this case,  please see the crisis support section at the bottom of the contacts page. Online therapy may not be suitable if you need a high level of care and support, are struggling to function day-to-day, are frequently self-harming or have thoughts of harming yourself, are drug or alcohol dependent, have or are experiencing reality distortion or are experiencing relational difficulties (or risk) which may potentially be heightened by accessing therapy online.

If at any point during the counselling process you need further support, I may ask for your consent to contact your GP or refer you to another mental health professional.  I may also recommend alternative avenues of support between sessions, or a few extra sessions on a temporary basis if you are particularly struggling.  I have a comprehensive referral pathway document containing details of additional support services in Suffolk, as well as national helplines, online forums and mental wellbeing charities should you need extra help between sessions. If you live outside of Suffolk, I will work with you to identify additional local support if required.

Jurisdiction and governance

I work exclusively in the UK in accordance with English law and I work with UK based clients only.  I adhere to the core competencies for online and phone therapy (OPT) and ethical framework of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).  I also adhere to the ethical code of the General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR).   

Next steps

I am a firm believer that the therapeutic relationship is key to a successful outcome, so it is important that you choose a therapist and method of delivery that you are comfortable with.  As such, I have further information about online therapy that I can send you on request.  I also offer a FREE no obligation 20 minute consultation to all new online clients. This gives you an opportunity to ask me any questions you may still have about online therapy and how I work, and get a real sense of how I can help you and our 'therapeutic fit'. This can be by telephone if you would prefer, but is ideally via Zoom so that you can get used to the technology and it try out. If you like the sound of online therapy, please get in touch and let's have a chat.