Online Counselling UK

Online counselling allows you to access professional therapeutic support wherever you are in the UK, without needing to travel to appointments. Sessions can take place in different ways, such as video sessions, telephone support or written communication. At Wellbeing Talk Therapy, I offer secure video counselling through Google Meet, as well as telephone counselling.

How Does Online Counselling Work?

The first step is arranging a free 10–15 minute introductory call. This gives us a chance to talk briefly about what has brought you to counselling and for me to answer any questions you may have. It is also an opportunity for us to get a sense of whether working together feels like the right fit.

If you decide you would like to continue, we can arrange a convenient time for your first counselling session. Once payment has been received, I will send the session details.

For telephone counselling, I will call you at the agreed time.

For online counselling, I use Google Meet for our sessions. I will email you a link which you simply click to join your appointment. You do not need to download any software, and I can talk you through the process if you have any concerns.

Telephone Counselling

Telephone counselling offers the same therapeutic support without the need for video. Some clients prefer this approach because they experience a greater sense of privacy or anonymity, which can feel comforting and make it easier to talk openly.

Others simply prefer the familiarity of a phone conversation or find telephone counselling a more accessible option if video sessions are not suitable.

What Are the Benefits of Online Counselling?

Finding time for yourself can feel impossible when you are already carrying so much. Online and telephone counselling remove the need to travel, making it easier to access support around your existing commitments.

Some of the benefits include:

• Convenience and flexibility – attend sessions from a place where you feel comfortable, without needing to factor in travel time.
• Access support from wherever you are in the UK – online counselling can make it easier to continue attending sessions if you have a busy schedule, travel frequently, or have difficulty getting to appointments.
• A familiar environment – some people feel more at ease talking from a private space at home, perhaps with a cup of tea and the comfort of familiar surroundings.
• Accessible support – online or telephone counselling can be helpful if leaving the house is difficult due to health, mobility, or other personal circumstances.
• Effective therapy – research suggests online counselling can be an effective way of accessing therapy, with many people experiencing similar benefits to those of face-to-face counselling (Andersson, 2018).

Are There Any Challenges with Online and Telephone Counselling?

Online and telephone counselling can be a helpful way to access support, but they may not suit everyone.

Some things to consider include:

• A reliable internet connection is important for video sessions. If your connection is unstable, telephone counselling may be a better option.
• You will need a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable talking openly without being overheard or interrupted.
• Some people may find video sessions tiring, particularly if they already spend much of the day on a computer for work or study.
• Some people prefer the experience of meeting a counsellor face-to-face, where body language and the physical counselling space are part of the experience.

Is Online Counselling Right for Me?

Online counselling may be a good option if:

• You have access to a private space where you can talk openly without being overheard.
• You feel reasonably comfortable using technology and have a reliable internet connection.
• You would prefer not to travel due to time commitments, health reasons or personal preference.
• You value the flexibility of accessing counselling from your own home.

If you are unsure whether online or telephone counselling feels right for you, the introductory call is an opportunity to discuss your circumstances and explore what might work best.

What Technology Do I Need for Online Therapy?

You will need a device with a reliable internet connection, such as a laptop, tablet or smartphone, with a working camera and microphone. You will also need access to email so I can send you the link for your session.

Is Online Counselling as Effective as Face-to-Face Therapy?

Research suggests that online counselling can be an effective way of accessing therapy, with many people experiencing similar benefits to face-to-face counselling. The quality of the therapeutic relationship and finding an approach that feels right for you are often more important than whether sessions take place online or in person (Andersson, 2018).

Common Questions About Online Counselling

How Much Does Online and Telephone Counselling Cost?

The cost of online counselling varies depending on the counsellor and the type of support offered. At Wellbeing Talk Therapy, sessions are £45 per session and last for up to 50 minutes. I offer a free 10–15 minute introductory call so we can discuss what you’re looking for and whether counselling feels like the right fit.

What Is the Difference Between NHS and Private Counselling?

NHS counselling is usually accessed through NHS Talking Therapies (formerly known as IAPT services in England), often through self-referral or referral from a healthcare professional. NHS services provide free support, although waiting times, appointment availability and the number of sessions offered can vary depending on local demand and resources.

NHS Talking Therapies provide valuable support for many people. However, increasing demand on services can sometimes mean longer waiting times and less flexibility around appointment times or choice of counsellor.

Private counselling involves paying for sessions but can offer greater choice and flexibility, including who you work with, appointment availability and how sessions take place, such as online or telephone counselling. Private counsellors may also draw from different therapeutic approaches and tailor sessions around your individual needs and preferences. Neither option is right for everyone. The best choice depends on your circumstances, the support you are looking for, and what feels most accessible to you.

Is Online Counselling Confidential?

Yes. Confidentiality is an important part of the counselling relationship, whether sessions take place online or by telephone. Online counselling sessions are held privately, and I use secure video calls through Google Meet.

As with any online service, it is also important to consider your own privacy. I recommend joining sessions from a private space where you feel comfortable talking openly and using a device and internet connection that you trust.

Google Meet uses encryption and other security measures designed to help protect video meetings. If you would like to find out more about Google Meet security, you can read Google’s guidance on how they protect meetings.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Starting counselling can feel like a big decision, but you don’t have to have everything figured out before getting in touch. A free 10–15 minute introductory call gives us the opportunity to briefly discuss what has brought you to counselling, answer any questions you may have, and explore whether working together feels like the right fit.

Sources

Andersson, G. (2018). Internet interventions: Past, present and future. Internet Interventions, 12, 181–188 (Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.invent.2018.03.008)