Online and phone counselling

Online and telephone counselling

During the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been essential to offer sessions online and by phone. I continue to be struck by how powerful, effective and convenient these methods can be, and now actively choose to work as an online and telephone counsellor.

Online and phone counselling. computer_girl_big

Online and phone counselling. Susan small pic

In 2020, I completed an 80-hour course in "Online and Telephone Counselling," run by counsellorcpd.com. This helped me to gain the knowledge and skills which are unique to working remotely.

You may already know whether you would prefer to work online or on the phone. On the other hand, if you would like to talk through the options, then you are welcome to contact me on 07581 325846.
I can also email you some further information to help you decide.

One client said,

"Susan listens with compassion and kindness at all times. Her counselling has made such a difference to my life... I cannot thank her enough."

Another commented,
"Counselling has been a fantastic help!"

What is Online Counselling like?

Online counselling takes place over the internet using a videocall system named "Whereby" which is similar to Skype or Zoom, but is more secure than those platforms.

Some of the benefits of online counselling are:
• You can create a comfortable and private space in your own home from which to attend sessions
• You may find it easy to talk, focus and express yourself
• You’ll be able to wear comfortable clothes, bring a cup of tea/coffee and avoid commuting to and from sessions
• We may be able to be more flexible about scheduling
• Unlike phone sessions, online counselling means we’ll be able to see each other
• Research shows that online counselling can be as effective as face-to-face work
• Whereby is easy to access and you won’t have to download any software.

Online and phone counselling. Black phone photo

What is Telephone Counselling like?

If you are generally comfortable with the telephone, it offers a very convenient way of accessing counselling. Once you get started, you'll probably find it easy to talk and soon benefit from the way phone counselling helps you to focus. I have many years of experience as a telephone counsellor, and have often heard clients express surprise at how much can be achieved on the phone

Some of the benefits of telephone counselling are:
• It is a uniquely portable and flexible way of doing sessions - as long as you can't be overheard, you can be almost anywhere
• You do not feel observed while you're talking (which can be valuable if discussing subjects where you feel embarrassed)
• It may be a more comfortable option if you feel nervous about using computers or the internet.

One challenge of telephone counselling is that the elements of eye-contact and body language are not present. We may use more verbal descriptions to compensate for this.

Outcomes of Counselling

The results of counselling vary for each person, but often include things like:

Greater confidence

Better decision-making

Awareness of options for change

Insight into the cause of problems

Improved self-acceptance

New ways to manage emotions

More harmonious relationships

Enhanced relaxation and wellbeing.

NB: Please note that, for legal reasons, I work with people who are based in the UK, and not with those who live overseas.

How to get in touch

If you would like to find out more about online or telephone counselling, you are very welcome to contact me on +44(0)7581 325846 or by email to [email protected]

(Phone image courtesy of kconnors via www.morguefile.com)
(Portrait image copyright Hannah Mitchell, 2014)