What to Expect from Online Counselling

If you live far from the city, video or phone counselling can be the difference between getting support and going without. A little preparation helps.

Before your session

• Find a private spot. A bedroom, a parked vehicle or a walk outside can all work.
• Use headphones if you can.
• Charge your phone, and check your signal.
• Have water and tissues close.

Keeping it private in a small community

• Avoid shared devices, or log out afterward.
• Use your own phone number if possible.
• Agree on a word that means “someone came in, I can’t talk.”

If the connection is poor

Agree in advance on a backup. Often a phone call works when video won’t.

After your session

Give yourself a few minutes before going back to your day. A cup of tea or a short walk can help.

Safety

Your counsellor will ask where you are at the start, so that help can be sent in an emergency.

Read about online counselling coverage.