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Online counselling

Updated: Mar 6

Many people are turning to online / e – counselling as an alternative to face-to-face counselling, but what are the pros and cons?

PROS

  • A perception of anonymity

  • Accessibility

  • Convenience

  • Time efficiency

  • Avoiding social stigma

CONS

  • Concerns about confidentiality, privacy, security and unreliable technology

  • Ethical and legal concerns

  • Lack of nonverbal communication

  • Inability of counsellor to act in a crisis

Research supporting the effectiveness of online / e-counselling:

“…accumulated evidence shows that e-therapy may be as effective as traditional mental care.”

Duplaga, M., & Dzida, D. (2013). The growth of e-health services focused on mental health.

“E-counselling saves time, money and it increases the sense of privacy. It helps the clients and therapist to pay close attention to their thoughts and feelings while still engaging in dialogues.”

Uzoekwe, H. E., Obika, J. A., & Obineli, A. (Rev.Sr.Dr.) (2012): In-cooperating E- Counselling in the Professional Development of Counselling Practice: Merits and Demerits.http://www.ajol.info/index.php/ijah/article/view/106377

“…online therapy was particularly effective for treating anxiety and stress, with lasting effects, and on average is as effective as face-to-face interventions.”

Robinson, E. (2009). Online counselling, therapy and dispute resolution A review of research and its application to family relationship services. AFRC Briefing No. 15 — October 2009

Guidelines to people searching for an online counsellor / therapist

My approach

It is clear that there are unique considerations when it comes to online counselling.

With research supporting the effectiveness of online / e-counselling and the many advantages for clients and counsellors alike, I think it would be shortsighted not to make use of the opportunities provided by technology.

At the same time, I think it would be irresponsible from counsellors not to take the necessary precautions and/or to enforce certain measures or exclusions to avoid (or at least, reduce) the risks.

Due to the remote nature of online counselling and my unfamiliarity with resources in your area it may make it impossible to honor my duty of care should clients present with certain problems.

Therefore, I am selective in the types of problems clients present with that I am willing to accept, and which to exclude from my online counselling service.


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This is a digital stamp, indicating that my qualifications were verified by the international online therapy directory, Psychology Today.
This is a digital stamp from the Solution Focused Universe University, the world's largest training organisation in the Solution Focused Brief Therapy approach. It shows I have been a member for 8 years.  A link to such a large organisation and continuous training in my approach shows I am a trustworthy professional.

© 2025 by Henning Gericke

PRC 0018643 (Health Professions Council of South Africa)

This is a digital certificate from the Solution Focused Universe University, the world's largest training organisation in the Solution Focused Brief Therapy approach. It shows I have been a member for 8 years.  A link to such a large organisation and continuous training in my approach shows I am a trustworthy professional.
This image includes the logos of 3 different forms of payments I accept: Visa card, Mastercard and paying with a card via an online link provided by Yoco.

PR no. 081 000 0508 764 (Practice number)

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