Online Therapy
As well as offering in-person therapy, I am fully certified in online counselling. I offer this to clients both locally in Suffolk and across the UK. Research suggests that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. Choosing to have therapy online gives you the freedom to engage in sessions at a time and place to suit your needs. I use a secure video conferencing platform which you can access from your computer, tablet or smartphone. When working online I make every effort to provide a safe and secure environment for us both so that you can get the best from your sessions.
Benefits of online therapy
- Therapy that fits around your lifestyle
- Sessions in your choice of location
- Access to home comforts
- May help you feel more relaxed and less inhibited
- No travel or commute required
- No issues around being seen arriving for therapy
- More choice of therapists and skillsets
- May make therapy more accessible for you
Is online therapy for you?
- Do you have a private space?
- Can you limit disturbances?
- Are you comfortable using internet & video technology?
- Is your available bandwidth adequate for video?
- Are you okay seeing only part of your therapist?
- Do you feel able to express yourself on camera?
- Do you notice your own bodily reactions e.g. foot tapping?
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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 I will provide you with step-by-step guidance. I will also provide information about how to get the most from online sessions. Working with technology can be occasionally problematic, so we will agree a procedure in case of any technical difficulties during our first session.
Online Safety
I prioritise safe, ethical practice so choose to use Zoom™ video conferencing for online therapy. This is an established and secure platform with end-to-end encryption and a waiting room facility. I use a unique personal meeting code and password for every client. I ensure that my devices are secure by employing password protection and up-to-date virus checkers and firewalls. Sessions will not be recorded.
It is important that you can access online sessions from a fully private space in which you feel safe and comfortable to talk, and will not be disturbed. If there are dependent or vulnerable members of your household I will ask you to ensure they have adequate care for the duration of your session. You are responsible for both your personal safety and the security of your devices. If you have any concerns that your safety or the security of our session is compromised, it is important that you let me know immediately. Online therapy can sometimes feel intense, particularly if you are returning straight back to your day. I therefore recommend factoring in extra time around both ends of the session to support self-care.
Suitability and Support
Online therapy, which usually happens once a week, is generally suitable for most people. However it is not suitable if you are in crisis, have severe mental health difficulties or are experiencing reality distortion. 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 is also not suitable if you need a high level of care, are struggling to function day-to-day, are frequently self-harming, are drug or alcohol dependent, or are experiencing relational difficulties which could be heightened by accessing therapy online. If you begin to struggle during our time together I will work with you to identify any additional support needed. I reserve the right to not offer or terminate online therapy if I have any concerns around safety.
Jurisdiction and governance
I work exclusively in the UK in accordance with English law. I work with UK based clients only. I adhere to the core competencies for online and phone therapy (OPT) and the 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 you feel comfortable with. I have further information about online therapy that I can send on request. I also offer a FREE no obligation 20 minute online consultation when I have availability to take on new online clients. This gives you an opportunity to ask me any questions you may still have, try an online session, and get a real sense of how I can help you and our 'therapeutic fit'. If you like the sound of online therapy, please get in touch and let's have a chat.
