ONLINE COUNSELLING | QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Online Counselling: Your Questions Answered
Everything you need to know before getting started
If you are considering online counselling, you may have questions about how sessions work, whether conversations are confidential, what equipment you need and how remote counselling compares with meeting in person.
This guide answers common questions to help you make an informed decision about online counselling with Fiona Jane Therapy & Coaching.
Explore Online CounsellingUnderstanding Online Counselling
What is online counselling and how does it work?
Online counselling allows you to speak with a counsellor remotely, usually through a video appointment.
It offers an opportunity to explore your emotions, experiences and personal concerns within a supportive therapeutic relationship, without needing to attend a physical counselling room.
The exact arrangements, including the communication platform, appointment duration and confidentiality procedures, should be explained before sessions begin.
Online counselling is about creating a meaningful therapeutic conversation, even when you and your counsellor are in different locations.
Getting Started with Online Counselling
Questions before your first appointment
What is online counselling?
Online counselling is a form of psychological support delivered remotely, often through video appointments, allowing you to communicate with a counsellor without meeting in the same room.
Who is online counselling suitable for?
Online counselling may be suitable for people who want emotional support and have access to a private space and appropriate technology. Suitability should be considered individually.
Do I need a diagnosis to start online counselling?
No. People seek counselling for many reasons, including emotional difficulties, relationships, life changes and greater self-understanding.
Can I attend online counselling from home?
Yes, if you have a suitable private environment where you can speak without being overheard or interrupted.
What happens during my first online counselling session?
Your first session usually includes getting to know your counsellor, discussing confidentiality, exploring your reasons for seeking support and considering next steps.
Technology and Online Appointments
What equipment and internet connection do you need?
What equipment do I need for online counselling?
For video sessions, you will generally need a suitable smartphone, tablet or computer with a camera, microphone and reliable internet connection.
Do I need to install special software?
This depends on the platform used. Your counsellor should explain how to join your appointment and whether any software is required.
What happens if my internet connection fails?
You and your counsellor should agree on a procedure for interrupted sessions, including how to reconnect or make alternative arrangements.
Can I use my mobile phone for online counselling?
A smartphone may be suitable for video counselling if it supports the agreed platform and provides a stable connection.
Do I need headphones for online counselling?
Headphones are not always essential, but they can improve sound quality and help reduce the chance of your counsellor's voice being overheard.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Keeping your counselling conversations private
Is online counselling confidential?
Confidentiality is an important part of online counselling. Your counsellor should explain privacy arrangements and the circumstances in which confidentiality may be limited, including safeguarding or legal obligations.
Are online counselling sessions recorded?
Recording arrangements should be made clear before counselling begins. You can ask whether sessions are recorded, what consent is required and how information is stored.
Can other people hear my online counselling session?
Your privacy depends partly on the space you choose. Use a private room, consider headphones and take steps to avoid interruptions.
What if I cannot find a private space at home?
Discuss this with your counsellor. Another suitable private location or a different counselling format may be more appropriate.
Questions About Online Counselling Sessions
What happens during counselling and how long does it last?
What can I talk about in online counselling?
You can explore emotions, relationships, stress, anxiety, grief, life changes and other experiences that feel important to you.
How long is an online counselling session?
Many individual counselling appointments last around 50 minutes, although exact arrangements vary. Confirm the session duration before booking.
How many online counselling sessions will I need?
This depends on your needs, goals and circumstances. You can discuss the frequency and duration of counselling with your counsellor.
What if I become upset during an online session?
Emotions can arise during counselling. You can pause, take your time and discuss how you are feeling with your counsellor.
Can I stop online counselling whenever I choose?
You can discuss ending counselling with your counsellor. Any applicable notice or cancellation arrangements should be explained beforehand.
Practical Questions About Online Counselling
Location, fees and choosing the right approach
Can I access online counselling outside Lincoln?
Online counselling may be available to clients beyond Lincoln, depending on the service area, professional requirements and where you are located. Confirm availability before arranging an appointment.
How much does online counselling cost?
Fees depend on the service and appointment arrangements. Please check the current information on the main Online Counselling page or make an enquiry.
Is online counselling better than face-to-face counselling?
Neither approach is automatically better for everyone. The right choice depends on your preferences, practical needs and the suitability of the format.
How do I arrange an online counselling appointment?
Visit the Online Counselling service page to learn more and find out how to make an enquiry.
How to Choose an Online Counsellor
Finding someone you feel comfortable talking to
Choosing a counsellor is a personal decision. It can be helpful to consider their training, qualifications, professional membership or registration, therapeutic approach and experience.
For online counselling, you may also want to ask about confidentiality, the technology used, arrangements for technical problems and how the counsellor manages remote sessions.
Feeling listened to, respected and comfortable within the therapeutic relationship is an important consideration.
Have More Questions About Online Counselling?
Explore your options for remote support
It is important to feel informed and comfortable when choosing counselling. Find out more about online sessions and how to make an enquiry.
Explore Online CounsellingAbout Fiona Jane
Fiona offers integrative counselling and coaching for relationships, anxiety, depression and wellbeing—online and across Lincolnshire.
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