Online counselling

info822671
Aug 14, 2018
2 min read

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.

http://dx.doi.org/10.4467/20842627OZ.14.029.2168

“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

Ensure that the counsellor / therapist is accredited by the relevant authority in his/her country / region (for example, the Health Professions Council of South Africa).
Ensure that the counsellor / therapist has taken steps to deliver this service in a responsible and accountable manner.

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.