Online Therapy
Over recent years, technological advances have enabled more secure and reliable methods of connecting with each other online. Now it’s possible to conduct therapy sessions over secure, confidential video platforms which also helps bring therapy to people who would otherwise miss out.
Is it as effective as face-to-face sessions?
There has been much debate, yet research now shows effective outcomes from both forms of therapy. As there can be pros and cons to both methods, it is important to find out what works for you and what you feel most comfortable with.
I strongly believe in the therapeutic relationship and do my upmost in either scenario to create a safe and welcoming experience, essential for a successful outcome. If you are unsure, the Initial consultation is free and offered online, so may give you a better idea of online work. From here, how we conduct our sessions going forward is totally up to personal preference.
Heres a few words about each…
FACE-TO-FACE THERAPY
Offering both forms, I find preference varies. Many people find the connection of face-to-face sessions very rewarding due to various factors. Such as, having a safe designated space, separate from places they are accustomed to. Making it their own ‘new space’ to focus on themselves and begin new change, away from the distractions of usual life.
For some, the connection or therapeutic relationship feels stronger, due to talking and working in the way we all naturally communicate, before technology came along. Also, some just want to be there and connect with a person in a more natural and realistic situation.
When talking face-to-face we subconsciously use all our senses and can be more in tune with social nuances such as body language. Resulting in a more natural experience which can aid the therapeutic process.
ONLINE THERAPY
Multiple studies of online therapy using video calling services, now find that online therapy can be equivalent to face-to-face sessions, offering similar therapeutic outcomes. It can also give you a more convenient method for us to work together. From the comfort of your own home may make it easier to fit into your schedule and cut out the need to travel. You may also feel more relaxed than meeting in a therapy room.
Despite these advantages, there are still some basic requirements to enable a smooth process. First and essentially, a reliable internet connection and a suitable device that has a camera and microphone. Ideally a laptop, computer or tablet, although smartphones are useable they are very limited by screen size and when working with documents.
A confidential space is also essential. Somewhere where you can sit and feel comfortable to talk without interruption or distraction.
Having privacy is essential to the therapeutic relationship as it allows your to explore exactly what is going on for you and only you. After all, there may be things you don’t want anyone else to hear.
I also recommend allowing yourself time after our sessions online to adapt back to your usual life. Unlike face-to-face sessions, where you may have space or time to reflect when travelling to or from the session. I still take all measures to attend to you during, and at end of sessions, as some of our discussion may be very meaningful or emotional. Therefore, it is advisable once we finish to reflect or take notes, before getting back on with what you normally do. This will also develop your learning and maximise the work we have done.
How does it work online?
All online video sessions are conducted through Zoom. An encrypted, secure and confidential service.
I also use a Virtual Private Network(VPN), adding to your privacy and increased security, further mitigating any confidentiality breaches.(For more info See Privacy Policy).
Zoom is free to download to most devices. If you’re not big on tech don’t worry, it is very user friendly and if you have any questions, please just get in touch. Once we arrange a time I will send you a link. With Zoom downloaded, you can then simply click on the link or enter the session ID and password.
We can also share documents and diagrams through Zoom, meaning we can work in a manner similar to if we were in the room. Some of our work may also involve me sending you forms or documents electronically before sessions, in order to enable a smoother and more efficient process.
Enhanced Security Measures
I take your privacy very seriously. All electronic correspondence is strictly confidential and I apply various measures to maximise security. Including Virtual Private Network, end-to-end SSL encrypted website, continually updated antivirus software, Two-Factor Authentication, password protection and encrypted email providers and storage.
Despite the additional measures I put in place to maintain confidentiality, I must iterate that the internet, in general, is never fully secure.
For further information regarding confidentiality and security measures, including GDPR compliance please read my Privacy Policies
