Why have online counselling or supervision?
Zoom and Skype software are free and means that anyone with an internet connection can access and benefit from online counselling. Counselling is no longer constrained to specific areas but can be accessed from anywhere in the world with the click of a button. It also means that people with complicated lives or work schedules can access counselling outside of traditional 9am – 5pm hours, making it more convenient. Just like traditional face-to-face counselling, online sessions are confidential. There are a number of platforms that can be used but I have found Zoom and Skype to be the most user-friendly.
How Zoom and Skype Sessions Work
Zoom and Skype counselling or supervision sessions work in almost exactly the same way as traditional face-to-face sessions except that instead of being in the same room, you see and hear each other on-screen from wherever you are. In order to engage in online counselling or supervision sessions you will need to do the following:Zoom
1. First you will need to book a session (payment must be made in advance) by calling, emailing or using the contact me page. When deciding on a suitable time for your online session, try to choose a time when you are unlikely to be disturbed and preferably, can find a space to be alone.
2. Once we have agreed a session time, I will send you an email with a zoom link.
3. At the agreed session time you click on the link to access the session on your PC, laptop, tablet or mobile phone.
4. The online session will last 50 minutes (or more for supervision) just like a face-to-face session. At the end of the session, you will get the option to book further sessions and then the Zoom session will be terminated.
Skype
1. Set up Skype on your computer or laptop. You can download it free and set up an account. If you would like me to send you a link, please contact me. You will also need a camera and mic but most PC’s and laptops now come with these included.
2. You should use the ‘test call’ function to check your camera and audio equipment are working properly.
3. Next you will need to book a session (payment must be made in advance) by calling, emailing or using the contact me page. When deciding on a suitable time for your online session, try to choose a time when you are unlikely to be disturbed and preferably, can find a space to be alone.
4. Once a session has been booked you will need to email me your account username at least 24 hours before your booked session time. I will then send you mine by return email.
5. A few minutes before your session time, you should login to Skype and at the agreed session time I will call you to begin the session.
6. The online session will last 50 minutes (or more for supervision) just like a face-to-face session. At the end of the session, you will get the option to book further sessions and then the Skype call will be terminated.
