‘After the circumstances of the pandemic – we’re all used to Zoom. And that’s great for therapy, as I can attest. Not only is it convenient, but you can also access a better quality of therapist, than you might ordinarily, as you don’t have to travel long distances to find them!
I’ve been really impressed with Denise’s work at The Well. She’s worked wonders for me – and it’s all been on Zoom.’
H, London
In the past, many in the counselling profession have been sceptical that the quality and depth of relationships required to effect meaningful therapeutic change could be developed online. Prior to Covid-19, I would have numbered myself amongst such professionals.
The restrictions imposed by the pandemic led me to adapt the services I could offer and move my practice online. At the time, I viewed this as a temporary measure. Two years on, I am witnessing the benefits to my clients of working remotely. So …
Does on-line therapy work?
Research suggests that on-line therapies can be as effective as face-to-face psychological therapies. Particular reference is made to its effectiveness treating symptoms of PTSD, depression and general anxiety.
How do clients experience online therapy?
Clients who engage with online therapy appear to experience comparable levels of satisfaction to those engaging with face-to-face therapy. Some clients refer to the disinhibiting effects of the medium, describing how they feel more comfortable and are able to be more open and talk about difficult or stigmatised topics when in their own surroundings. Any self-consciousness that could be exacerbated by being presented with an image of self on screen is easily overcome by using options such as “Hide Self View”.
What about the relational aspects of therapy?
Clients rate the quality of the therapeutic relationship as positively as in face-to-face therapy. They report that they quickly develop good and trusting relationships with their online therapist. They There is even the suggestion that the absence of distractions associated with physical proximity can lead to client and therapist becoming more psychologically connected.
Is online therapy suitable for me?
Online therapy extends the reach of counselling services beyond traditional boundaries. Geography and physical location are no longer restricting factors. For those with disabilities, those for whom therapy attracts stigma or shame or those who simply lead busy lives, the accessibility, privacy and flexibility afforded by working online facilitates access to therapy.
During our initial meeting we will explore what it is that brings you to therapy and any potential risk factors. At that stage we will discuss the technical, practical and psychological suitability of online therapy to your situation. We will also discuss steps to be taken or additional support you might require should an emergency arise. This is something we will keep under constant review.
Special considerations when working online.
We will provide guidance to help you prepare for and get the best out of your on-line sessions. We will also allow time in your sessions to make sure that you get your set-up just right.
It is important that, during online therapy sessions, your privacy is protected. You can be assured that, when working with The Well, sufficient safeguards have been put in place to prevent the session being overheard or someone being present without your knowledge. Security measures within Zoom are employed to ensure against electronic intrusion by a third party.