Virtual Counselling Information
Online Therapy from the Comfort of Your Own Space
I provide secure, confidential online counselling to clients throughout British Columbia, Canada and South AFrica. Virtual counselling offers the flexibility to access professional support from the comfort and privacy of your home, office, or another suitable location.
Research has shown that online counselling can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
What You Will Need
To get the most from your session, please ensure you have:
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A reliable internet connection
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A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone
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A quiet, private space where you are unlikely to be interrupted
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Headphones (recommended for additional privacy)
Before Your Appointment
Please:
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Log in a few minutes before your scheduled session.
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Ensure your device is fully charged or connected to power.
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Minimize distractions by silencing notifications and closing unnecessary applications.
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Choose a location where you feel comfortable speaking openly.
Confidentiality
Your privacy is important. Sessions are conducted using a secure platform designed to protect your personal information.
While every reasonable effort is made to maintain confidentiality, no internet-based technology can guarantee absolute security. You can help protect your privacy by using a secure internet connection, keeping your device updated, and attending sessions from a private location.
Technical Difficulties
Technology occasionally fails.
If we lose connection during a session:
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I will first attempt to reconnect through the video platform.
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If we are unable to reconnect within a few minutes, I will contact you using the chat option, telephone number, or email address you have provided.
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If technical issues prevent us from completing the session, we will discuss the appropriate next steps.
Your Location and Contact Information
The location, telephone number, and emergency contact information you provide during intake will be used should an emergency arise during a virtual counselling session.
Please let me know at the beginning of your appointment if:
- You are attending the session from a different location than usual.
- Your telephone number has changed.
- Your emergency contact information has changed.
Keeping this information current helps ensure I can respond appropriately should an emergency occur while we are meeting virtually.
Emergencies
Virtual counselling is not an emergency service.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are at immediate risk of harm to yourself or someone else, please call 911 or your local emergency number or go to your nearest emergency department. If you are in British Columbia, Canada you may also contact your local crisis service.
Is Online Counselling Right for You?
Online counselling is appropriate for many people and concerns. However, there may be situations where another form of care is more suitable, particularly if there are significant safety concerns, severe mental health symptoms, or circumstances requiring immediate in-person support.
If I believe virtual counselling is not the most appropriate option for your needs, I will discuss alternative recommendations with you whenever possible.
Questions?
If you have any questions about online counselling or would like to discuss whether it is the right fit for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch before booking your first appointment.
