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How does online counselling work?

How does online counselling work?

Last Updated: 14-03-2023

Written by :

Ms.Zahabiya Bambora
Counselling Psychologist
M.Sc. Psychology - Swansea University, UK.

Reviewed By:

Counselling Psychologist MA Psychology Pennsylvania State University, USA
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What is online counselling?

Online Counselling or Online Therapy is an alternative to the conventional method of face-to-face counselling. Online counselling provides support and treatment for a wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Relationship Issues, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Negative Overthinking, Panic Disorder, Emotional Disorders Obsessive-compulsive Disorder, Social Issues, Poor Coping Mechanisms, and functioning.

Many people s perceptions of healthcare, especially mental health therapy, have changed due to digital technology. Clients seeking economic and accessible mental health services increasingly opt for online counselling, which is conducted via digital means.

The advent of technology has transformed many aspects of our lives, including accessing mental health services. Online counselling commonly referred to as e-counselling or teletherapy, has become an increasingly popular method for individuals looking for assistance. Leveraging the internet as a therapeutic tool through various digital platforms makes mental healthcare more accessible than ever before. This blog will examine various forms of online therapy as well as its advantages, the necessity of choosing an experienced licensed therapist and answering common concerns or queries about online therapy as well as who benefits most and how online counselling in India works.

Types of Online Counselling

Online counseling services come in various forms to meet varying client needs and preferences, from video chat sessions to phone consultations.

  1. Video Counseling: Video counseling offers clients and therapists an alternative form of face-to-face therapy; clients interact in real time using platforms like Zoom or Skype or specialized therapy apps to communicate.
  2. Phone Counselling: For those who feel intimidated by video sessions or don t possess the technology needed for it, phone counselling offers a welcome alternative.
  3. Text-Based Counseling: Text-based counselling sessions utilize email or chat-based sessions where clients and therapists communicate via written messages to provide greater flexibility for communicating. This format may be particularly effective for individuals who prefer writing to express themselves more directly.
  4. Group Therapy: Online group therapy sessions bring individuals facing similar issues together under one therapist s guidance to create an intimate setting where people can share experiences.
  5. Free Online Counselling Chat 24/7 India: Many platforms offer free chat services around the clock, providing immediate support to those in crisis or in need of urgent help.

Advantages of Online Counselling

Best online counselling in India offers many advantages that make it a viable solution for many individuals:

  1. Accessibility: Online counselling services make therapy accessible from anywhere, particularly beneficial for those living in remote or rural areas where access to mental health services may be scarce.
  2. Convenience: Scheduling flexibility is one of the major benefits of online counselling for clients, enabling them to book sessions at times that fit their schedules - such as evening and weekend times.
  3. Comfort and Privacy: Many people find online counselling more comfortable when discussing personal matters from the privacy of their own home, providing a sense of security while decreasing any stigma attached to visiting an actual therapist s office.
  4. Cost-Effective: Online counselling may often be more cost-effective than traditional in-person therapy, removing travel costs and offering lower session fees.
  5. Diverse Services: In India, from video calls to free online counselling chat available 24/7, there are various services tailored to fit individual needs and preferences.

Importance of a Licensed Therapist

It is vital when searching online counselling services you choose licensed therapists in order to receive quality help online. Here is why.

  1. Professional Standards: Licensed therapists adhere to stringent professional and ethical standards to guarantee superior care.
  2. Qualified Expertise: Licensed therapists have undergone intensive education and training, equipping them with the expertise needed to address various mental health concerns effectively.
  3. Accountability: Licensed professionals are subject to oversight from regulatory bodies, which monitor their practices and address any complaints or instances of malpractice that arise.
  4. Specialization: Therapists possessing licenses are often experts in specific areas such as trauma, depression or anxiety therapy; by selecting one for online counselling in India you ensure you will receive top quality care. 

Addressing Concerns About Online Therapy

Some may experience concerns with online therapy despite its many advantages. Here are the most frequently raised issues and how they may be resolved:

  1. Effectiveness: Studies have proven the efficacy of online counselling as an alternative therapy option for anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  2. Privacy and Confidentiality: Reputable online therapy platforms employ advanced encryption and secure technologies to safeguard clients information while upholding confidentiality.
  3. Technical Issues: While technical problems may arise, most platforms offer technical support services to assist clients and therapists through any obstacles that arise.
  4. Impersonal Nature: Although online therapy may feel less personal than face-to-face therapy, many find the comfort of their own environment allows for easier communication.
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Who Benefits From Online Counseling?

Online counselling can benefit a range of individuals;

  1. Professionals With Complex Schedules: People who lead busy lifestyles can take advantage of online sessions flexibility.
  2. People Living Remote Areas: Living in rural or remote locations can access therapy without traveling long distances for treatment.
  3. People With Mobility Issues: People living with physical disabilities or chronic illnesses can receive support in their home environment.
  4. Students: College-going young adults can maintain continuity in their mental health care from campus care providers.
  5. Individuals Seeking Convenience: Online counseling s convenience makes it attractive to many.

Common Issues Addressed in Online Counselling

Counselling services online can effectively treat many different mental health concerns, including but not limited to:

  1. Anxiety and Depression: Online therapy offers tools and strategies for effectively coping with anxiety and depression.
  2. Stress Management: Strategies to cope with stress while building resilience are often addressed. 3. Relationship Issues: Both couples and individuals can use therapy sessions online to address relationship challenges.
  3. Trauma and PTSD: Online counselling for mental health in India provides individuals with help for processing and recovering from traumatic experiences.
  4. Addictions: Assistance is available for various forms of addiction such as substance abuse or behavioral addictions.

How Does Online Counseling Work?

  1. Selecting a Platform/Therapist: Clients select an established online therapy service provider who offers multiple video, phone and free chat features like video conferencing and 24/7 online counselling chat India facilities.
  2. Initial Assessment: The initial session typically involves an assessment of client needs and goals to allow the therapist to personalize his/her approach to suit each person s situation.
  3. Scheduling Sessions: Clients typically arrange regular sessions with their therapist, which can vary in frequency according to their needs and recommendations.
  4. Conducting Sessions: Therapy sessions can take place via video conferencing, phone conversations or chat rooms and use various therapeutic techniques to support their client.
  5. Ongoing Support: Between sessions, clients may benefit from having access to resources, exercises or even the option to contact their therapist directly.

Conclusion

Online counselling has quickly become a powerful force in mental health care, providing convenient, accessible, and efficient assistance to people worldwide. From long-term therapy sessions to instantaneous assistance via free 24/7 online counselling chat India - options for support are numerous and varied. When seeking assistance it is crucial that a licensed therapist be selected, while online counselling offers versatile solutions which address many issues - making it an attractive solution for many. As technology develops further the scope and reach of online counselling will only expand, providing even greater chances for people seeking help. For those looking for a reliable and quality online counselling service, HopeQure is a trusted choice, offering certified therapists and a user-friendly platform to ensure effective mental health support.

 

 

Reference

Alleman, J. R. (2002). Online counseling: The Internet and mental health treatment. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 39(2), 199.

Baker, K. D., & Ray, M. (2011). Online counseling: The good, the bad, and the possibilities. Counselling Psychology Quarterly, 24(4), 341-346.

Dowling, M., & Rickwood, D. (2013). Online counseling and therapy for mental health problems: A systematic review of individual synchronous interventions using chat. Journal of Technology in Human Services, 31(1), 1-21.

Haberstroh, S., Duffey, T., Evans, M., Gee, R., & Trepal, H. (2007). The experience of online counseling. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 29(3), 269-282.

Kauer, S. D., Mangan, C., & Sanci, L. (2014). Do online mental health services improve help-seeking for young people? A systematic review. Journal of medical Internet research, 16(3), e3103.

Mallen, M. J., Vogel, D. L., Rochlen, A. B., & Day, S. X. (2005). Online counseling: Reviewing the literature from a counseling psychology framework. The Counseling Psychologist, 33(6), 819-871.

Richards, D., & Viganó, N. (2013). Online counseling: A narrative and critical review of the literature. Journal of clinical psychology, 69(9), 994-1011.

Young, K. S. (2005). An empirical examination of client attitudes towards online counseling. CyberPsychology & Behavior, 8(2), 172-177.

 

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