Online Therapy

Covid 19 UPDATE: I am now offering face-to-face as well as online sessions.  Please contact me if you wish to discuss Covid protocols, or whether online or face-to-face therapy might be better for you.

I offer online therapy, so that you can experience therapy from the comfort of your own home.  Online therapy is a flexible and convenient option, and many of my clients say that they prefer it to face-to-face therapy.

Does it work?  There is lots of research to indicate that therapy delivered remotely is just as effective as face-to-face therapy (e.g., Lichstein et al., 2013; Stubbings et al., 2013).  I have worked successfully with many clients online.

What do I need? All you need is a computer, tablet or smartphone with a built-in camera and microphone, and a private place where you can speak without being overheard or interrupted.  You don’t need any special technical knowledge.

I usually use a video conferencing service called Zoom for online therapy sessions.  Most people find it is reliable and easy to use.  I send you a link via email, which you click at the start of the session.  If it is the first time you have used Zoom, you will be prompted to download some software.  If you are feeling unsure about things, I am happy to arrange a short “test call” before your first session.

You can click here to watch a video that shows you how to join a Zoom meeting.

What happens if we get cut off?  We will agree in advance what to do if we get cut off; usually I will simply call you by telephone and, if we cannot re-connect, we can – depending on your preference - continue via telephone or re-schedule the session.

I'm still not sure...  It's common to be unsure if online therapy is right for you.  If you're not quite sure, or have any questions which aren't answered here, please feel free to contact me.  I am happy to arrange a short “test call” so you can get a feel for how things work.   When government restrictions allow, it's also possible to mix online and face to face sessions.  Everyone is different, and I always try to tailor my services around your goals and preferences.  Read more about what to expect when working with me.

References

Lichstein, K. L., Scogin, F., Thomas, S. J., DiNapoli, E. A., Dillon, H. R., & McFadden, A. (2013). Telehealth cognitive behavior therapy for co-occurring insomnia and depression symptoms in older adults. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 69(10), 1056-1065. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.22030

Stubbings, D. R., Rees, C. S., Roberts, L. D., & Kane, R. T. (2013). Comparing in-person to videoconference-based cognitive behavioral therapy for mood and anxiety disorders: Randomized controlled trial. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 15(11), e258. https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.2564