What Is Telehealth Counselling?
How does telehealth counselling differ from a face-to-face session?
There is now widespread acceptance of telehealth counselling thanks to the pandemic, it continues to be popular due to its convenience and effectiveness.
Healing By The Bay offers counselling via a Zoom call or telehealth session no matter where you are in Australia.
Who Should Use Telehealth Counselling?
For some people, the stigma or embarrassment associated with seeking counselling services may prevent them from seeking the help they need.
However, online counselling offers a convenient entry point to mental health care, as it can be accessed in the privacy of one's home or bedroom.
It helps overcome the fear of visiting a clinic.
Visiting a counsellor can be particularly challenging for people suffering from social anxiety. Telehealth counselling is a less intimidating, as it does not require a physical visit to the counsellor.
As the location is no longer an obstacle, it is easier to find a suitable counsellor and they can be anywhere within Australia.
Telehealth clients benefit from greater availability, more flexible options and shorter waiting times.
What are the disadvantages of online counselling?
Telehealth is not for everyone so these are some of the points that we know some clients may struggle with.
Some people need to be in a room with their counsellor to feel comfortable and connect meaningfully.
It can take some time to get used to communicating on screen. Therefore, the decision to use telehealth often depends on how familiar they are with the use of technology and video conferencing platforms in their daily lives.
Some people find that communication is limited, especially in telephone sessions, where both parties cannot see body language and non-verbal cues.
The counselling session may also be interrupted by technical problems. The smooth running of the session depends on the technical knowledge and internet connection of the therapist and the client.
It may not feel like a proper session as you are in your own space rather than sharing a physical room getting counselling help.
What are the advantages of online counselling?
Online counselling allows people who struggle with social situations such as anxiety or phobias. They can relax knowing that they have some control over the environment that they are in when they receive counselling
Parents with young children can access counselling without having to stress about baby sitters or baby sleep times.
We can do sessions around the times your children sleep and meal times.No transport. Maybe you do not drive or your car is out of action. We have all had times when we have had to struggle with trying to get to appointments without reliable transport.
You may work Monday To Friday and not be able to take time off for counselling. We can work in around your work hours or even get a session in during an extended lunch break.
Do you travel for work? If you have considered counselling but travel plans keep disrupting appointments. We can book in telehealth sessions around face to face sessions.
Online Counselling Sessions
However, most virtual sessions will be the same as face-to-face sessions.
Your counsellor can be observing your body language, take physical and verbal cues, and set a pace that is comfortable for you.
Just as in a physical session, you can choose what you want to discuss and what you want to get out of the session. This is a safe and confidential space that is just for you.
If you are curious about virtual counselling, it is worth a try.
If it doesn't work for you, there is always the option of traditional face-to-face counselling or our walk and talk sessions
Andrea will find a way that best suits your needs and preferences.
How to create a safe space at home to talk to your counsellor
A safe space is where you feel comfortable talking openly and honestly with Andrea.
We recommend that you hold your telehealth session in a private room where you can sit comfortably throughout the session without being distracted from the outside.
This will allow you to speak freely and know that you can discuss what is on your mind in peace.
Consider whether you feel safe talking to your counsellor at home.
Perhaps you have your own room with a closed-door where you feel comfortable.
If possible, let members of your household know that you are having an important conversation or session so that you are not disturbed or interrupted.
If you cannot find a private space at home, check if there is another place in your home where you can be alone, e.g. the backyard, garage or car.
An alternative is to go for a walk and find a private place where others cannot see you.
If you are worried about someone interrupting you during your therapy session, talk to Andrea about this and discuss strategies for coping with such situations.
For example, you can agree on a specific word or phrase to signal that someone has entered your room and you don't feel comfortable continuing the conversation.
To make telehealth go smoothly, keep the following in mind:
Check that you have good phone reception or internet connection.
Before the session, make notes about the things you want to discuss.
Find a safe space, somewhere quiet and private.
Make sure the room is well lit and not too dark.
Make yourself comfortable. Have a glass of water and tissues handy
Minimise possible distractions. Close windows and doors. Put your phone on silent.
Use headphones for privacy and better sound.
If you feel that online counselling is not right for you we can find other counselling options. Share concerns with Andrea who will find other ways to continue your counselling sessions in a way that best suits your needs.