Your Guide to Online Counselling Sessions

Written by Donna Dibb

Do you have an image in mind when you think about counselling?
Are you picturing your sessions taking place in a cosy room with two comfortable chairs facing each other? Would that be the right environment for you?

Perhaps you’re more concerned about practical details - where to park, which bus to catch, or when you’d need to leave home or work to arrive on time.

While I love welcoming new clients into my counselling room and do everything I can to help you feel comfortable, I also understand that face-to-face appointments aren’t always convenient - for many different reasons.

Have you considered online therapy?

The most important part of counselling is the relationship and trust we build together.

Research shows that online therapy sessions can be just as supportive and effective as meeting in person. In fact, there are now twice as many people having therapy via video counselling platforms (such as Zoom) compared with five years ago.

Like many therapists, I undertook additional training in online work during the Covid pandemic so I could continue to support my clients when meeting in person wasn’t possible. I now offer both online counselling sessions and in-person therapy, so you can choose what works best for you.

Accessibility & convenience

With online appointments, you can attend sessions from home, work, or any private space where you feel safe and won’t be disturbed. This saves travel time and makes it easier to fit therapy into your routine.

Many clients appreciate being able to talk from the comfort of their own home - without the stress or time commitment of travel.

Comfort & safety

Being in a familiar environment often helps people feel more relaxed, making it easier to open up about sensitive topics.

For clients who feel anxious about leaving home or being in a new environment, online therapy from home can ease that stress.

I’ve also worked with clients who find eye contact difficult in face-to-face sessions, video therapy can make them feel more comfortable. And if it feels easier, you can even choose to turn your camera off.

Flexibility

Online therapy is often easier to schedule since you don’t have to factor in travel. Regular appointments are key to progress, and online counselling provides the flexibility you need if you’re away or unable to meet in person.

Many of my clients use a mix of online and in-person counselling.

Privacy

If you’re worried about privacy, online counselling sessions can help. Some clients find it reassuring that they won’t risk bumping into someone they know in a waiting room.

Access to wider support

One of the biggest benefits of online therapy is choice. You’re not limited to therapists in your local area - you can find the right counsellor who truly fits your needs, no matter where you live.

Continuity of care

Therapy works best with consistency. With online sessions, we don’t have to interrupt your support if you’re away or unable to attend in person. You’ll still receive the same level of care from me.

How to access your online counselling session

Once we’ve agreed a time and date, I’ll confirm the details by email. You’ll receive a simple link to Doxy.Me, a secure platform used for healthcare consultations. It looks very similar to Zoom.

When you click on the link, you’ll enter a virtual waiting room. I’ll already be there, ready to welcome you at your appointment time.

Is online therapy right for you?

I hope this short guide helps you decide how you’d like to access counselling support.

I offer online therapy sessions to make counselling more accessible, flexible, and comfortable, while giving you the same supportive experience as in-person sessions.

Click here if you’d like a consultation and to explore online counselling.