Frequently Asked Questions
How does online counselling work?
Unlike conventional, face-to-face counselling, the online process relies mainly on communication through text. Where face to face counselling uses other cues which help to develop the thereapeutic relationship - body language, tone of voice and so on - are absent. But on the other hand, the counsellor and the client can take their time (particularly through email) to consider what they want to say, to reflect upon it and to engage in a potentially rich dialogue which aims to help the client find ways to tackle their issues.
Typically, the client will set out their thoughts and feelings, and statement of the issue or issues that concern them at the moment. The counsellor reads and reflects upon what the client has written, and responds to what the client is saying. In some cases, this may involve direct help and advice, or detail reflections and comments on what the client is saying. Over a period of time, as the therapeutic relationship develops, and understanding deepens on both sides, the counselling process aims to help clients better understand themselves, and find meaningful ways of dealing with their issues.
How long does it take?
The amount of time varies from person to person. Some people find just being able to communicate frankly and openly with another person a help in itself. Others may feel they need more time to develop understanding of what is troubling them, and to seek ways through the counselling process to help themselves. We normally recommend a minimum of nine sessions (emails/online chat), but in practice there is no fixed period. The termination of the counselling relationship will be agreed between the counsellor and the client.
How can counselling help me?
For many people, counselling, whether online or face to face, is immensely helpful. No matter how small or large you feel your issues or problems are, counselling can help you better understand what is happening, and hopefully help you find a way of tackling your issues positively. Some people start to feel more in control of their lives in a short space of time, but for others, counselling may just be the start of a longer journey. Counselling can give people more confidence about addressing their concerns or issues, and managing difficult emotions. Some people try counselling for a time, and decide they wish to explore other avenues, too, such as group therapy, psychoanalysis, or special help (for example, in cases of sexual abuse, drug problems, additional sources of help may be appropriate - we can advise on existing services). Importantly, counselling is time for you. Whatever you bring into the therapeutic relationship, you will be treated with respect and acceptance. As counsellors we will also strive to maintain an empathic understanding of you and what you bring to the relationship.
Is the service confidential?
Yes. Although emails and online chat transcripts are stored, they are completely anonymised. Only the client and the counsellor will be aware of the contents of the correspondence. Each client is given a client number, held separately from their name and other details. We recommend Hushmail as the email programme, because emails are encrypted. Other forms of encryption are available, which we can discuss if you prefer to use another method. At the end of the counselling process, emails are deleted using a secure electronic deletion proceess so that the files cannot be recovered. We also adhere strictly to the BACP code of practice (link).
If you have other questions which have not been addressed here, feel free to email us and we will either answer personally or add a response to the FAQ section.
How do I pay?
The first session is free. Thereafter, payment should be made using Paypal. You should pay per session (in advance), using Paypal (details below). Sessions are £35 each. In the event that the client wishes to terminate the counselling relationship, we require notice of 48 hours for online chat. In the case of email correspondence, please let us know after your last session - should you send out an email as part of the counselling process, we normally begin working on it within two days, so we ask you to cancel within 24 hours of sending your email, otherwise the fee is non-refundable.
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How much does it cost? The first session or email exchange is free. This is an opportunity for you to tell me something about yourself and what issues you feel you need help with. It is also a chance to get a sense of the process. Thereafter, if you chose to continue, sessions (email exchange is the equivalent of a face to face session), costs £30. |
About the Counsellor My name is John Dodds. I have trained as a counsellor for five years, and I hold a Counselling Certificate (COSCA) . I am currently working as a counsellor in Health All Round, a community health practice in Edinburgh. I am now extending my practice to include online counselling. |
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Secure Email For many, the preferred method is secure email. This gives you a chance to consider, and write down your thoughts and feelings. And it gives me, as the counsellor, a helpful record of everything you wish to consider. I can then take time to give you a detailed, in-depth response. I recommend secure email, which is encrypted. |
Online ChatOnline chat - also known as synchronous chat, where you and the counsellor used chat software to text talk - happens in the moment, so in that respect it has similarities with face to face counselling. This may not suit everyone, because non-verbal communication is missing. However, if you are comfortable with texting, this method, or you are seeking more immediate feedback, you may find this process helpful. |
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Download Hushmail Hushmail provides a secure, encrypted email accounts, which are free to use. Once you have an account, you email, you then register with the counselling service. We identify clients by a number, though names are filed securely in a separate place. |
Download Skype Skype offers a secure chat environment, through text messaging or internet telephone chat. It works in a similar way to Microsoft Messenger, ICQ, Yahoo Messenger and other well-known chat software. It's free, and once you have an account, you can register with the counselling service and provide your contact identity. |