Face-to-face counselling isn't for everyone. Perhaps your busy schedule prevents you from having the time to travel to therapy, or maybe you simply would prefer to attend online therapy from the comfort of your own home. Whatever your reasons for looking, online counselling has made mental health support more accessible, offering the flexibility and convenience of connecting with a therapist from the comfort of your own space.
Whether you're completely new to therapy, or are considering changing from in-person sessions, this blog will help you understand how to prepare for online therapy, what to expect during the process, and the benefits of remote counselling. I’ll also share a wee bit about my approach to counselling, so you’ll know what it’s like to work with me online.
To help you get the most out of online counselling, it’s best to prepare both the space that you are in, and the technology you will be using. Here’s 6 handy tips to help you you can get ready for your first session:
It's not all about speed. Make sure you are in a place in your home where you receive a reliable internet connection. This will help make sure that we have a smooth and uninterrupted online therapy session. If it's a space in your house that you don't usually browse the internet, it can be useful to test your connection before logging in to your session!
Whether you're going to be joining using a laptop, tablet, or a mobile phone it's useful to make sure that you have a working camera and microphone by testing these both before your session. You may want to use headphones to both improve sound quality, and offer you a little bit more privacy.
Spend some time thinking about the space you're going to be in during sessions. You might want to pick a favourite spot where you find comfortable, or you may even wish to find a space you don't typically use to create a boundary between your therapy and your normal day-to-day activities. Whichever feels right for you, try to make sure it’s somewhere you feel safe and relaxed, and where you won’t be overheard.
Try to shut out the outside world by turning off notifications on your phone, closing unnecessary browser tabs, and eliminating as much background noise as possible. Creating a focused environment will help you stay present during your session, and in turn helps you to make the most of your time during the online counselling session.
Being comfortable is super important in counselling, and online therapy is no different. Pour yourself a cup of tea, juice, or water and keep it nearby to help you stay hydrated and feel more at ease. I'll take a strong tea with a wee bit of milk please!
In person-centred therapy, sessions will be mostly led by you with some guidance from myself as the online counsellor. Before your session, you may want to take a few minutes to reflect on what you'd like to discuss. Write down any topics, thoughts, or questions you’d like to explore.
Now that you’re hopefully feeling more prepared, maybe you're wondering what to expect from online therapy. While the format is a wee bit different from in-person sessions, the process is mostly the same! So here’s what you can expect:
As with in-person and outdoor therapy, online counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. We will use secure, encrypted platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or WhatsApp Video to ensure your sessions remain confidential. You also have the benefit of creating your own comfortable, safe space for therapy, whether at home or in a quiet office.
One of the main advantages of online therapy is its flexibility. You can schedule online counselling sessions at a time that suits you, without needing to worry about travel time. I work in the evenings and weekends to help with your busy lifestyle. Working online also benefits people with disabilities, mobility challenges, or those living in remote areas.
The relationship between therapist and client is essential to the success of therapy. You may be wondering if this connection can still be achieved online—and it absolutely can! During our sessions, you can expect the same level of empathy, understanding, and support as you would in person. We will build a trusting relationship together, where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings.
Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or grief, online therapy offers the same supportive environment as traditional face-to-face sessions. If anything, some clients find it easier to open up when they’re in the comfort of their own homes.
Online counselling isn’t just a convenient alternative to in-person therapy—it also comes with several unique benefits. Here are some reasons why online therapy might be the best choice for you:
Online therapy removes the commute to therapy, allowing you to work with a therapist regardless of where you live or any accessibility issues you might experience with in-person counselling. This is particularly helpful for those living in rural areas, clients with mobility issues, or anyone who struggles to find a local therapist.
The flexibility of online therapy allows you to fit sessions into your busy schedule, even outside of typical office hours. Whether you need therapy in the evening or at weekends, online sessions offer the convenience to make therapy work around your life. You can join sessions from home, work, or even while travelling, provided you have a private and stable environment.
Being in your own environment can make therapy feel less intimidating. You get to control where the session takes place, making it easier for you to relax and be open about your feelings. Whether you’re sitting in your favourite chair, wrapped in a blanket, or in a peaceful outdoor setting, you can choose the space that helps you feel most comfortable.
Online therapy allows for consistency, even when life gets in the way. Lots of missed in-person sessions are as a result of transport delays, childcare issues, or unexpected events. When attending online counselling, your therapy can often continue uninterrupted despite the chaos of life. This consistency can really help you maintain progress on your healing journey.
For clients who might feel self-conscious or anxious in face-to-face settings, online therapy offers a level of comfort and anonymity. The physical distance between you and the therapist can sometimes make it easier to share personal issues, making online therapy a great choice for those who are new to counselling or feel nervous about in-person meetings.
I am a person-centred counsellor, which basically means that I focus on creating a non-judgemental, empathic space where you, the client, leads their own way in your healing journey. My approach is led by you, so you can move at your own pace, and together, we will explore whatever is most important to you.
I specialise in working with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, panic attacks, low mood, grief, and low self-esteem. Additionally, I have experience in supporting people with addiction and those with ADHD and autism.
My goal is to build a trusting, supportive relationship where you feel heard and valued. Whether you’ve had positive or negative experiences with therapy in the past, I aim to offer a fresh, compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. In our online sessions, we will work together to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Starting online therapy can feel like a big step, but with the right preparation, it will be a transformational experience. Whether you’re at home, at work, or in a peaceful outdoor setting, online therapy offers a flexible and accessible way to receive support.
By preparing your space, ensuring a stable internet connection, and taking time to reflect on what you want to discuss, you’re giving yourself a really good chance at connecting with your online counselling journey. Together, we’ll work towards your goals in a space that feels comfortable, supportive, and right for you.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about online therapy, feel free to reach out before your session. I’m here to help make the process as smooth and beneficial as possible. You can also find out more about online counselling on the BACP website.
