There are many reasons why people prefer online help. It is discrete, affordable, only one click away, professional, and beyond physical borders.

Moreover, it is a personal choice. Face to face therapy isn’t for everyone. Online counselling is a perfect match for those with…

  • Lack of time – You travel a lot or have a very busy schedule. Part of our Western lifestyle is hectic schedules and a plethora of appointments to keep. We have so many balls to juggle. Fitting in some ‘me’-time becomes a puzzle and too much effort. There are always other, more urgent issues. With online counselling there is no need to travel to see a therapist. This fits better around other commitments. It allows you more flexibility. Make yourself a priority, at your convenience, without having to drop any of the other balls.
  • Remote location – You are travelling or living in a remote location that does not offer mental health services in English. You have settled in a new country and are not comfortable using the available resources, or there are no services available.
  • Doubtful or embarrassment – You aren’t ready to talk in person. You are not sure you need psychological support or coaching. You are not sure what counseling can offer you. You uphold a high position and standing in your community and prefer discretion. You feel shy or embarrassed about approaching a mental health service. You prefer counselling in an anonymous online environment as it feels more confidential and discrete.
  • On your own terms – You have worked hard to make your life ‘lean’, cutting out stressors, focusing on your priorities, interacting with the outside world on your terms. Online therapy is an extension of a life style choice. You do not have to leave your comfort zone to sit in traffic, find parking, and wait for your appointment. Whenever works best for you.

In some cases, online therapy is not the best choice. If you are in an acute crisis you may need the physical proximity of a person to assist you. If you are experiencing acute psychiatric problems face-to-face contact and treatment with medication is recommended.

Online therapy is not recommended if:

  • You have thoughts of hurting yourself or others
  • You are in an emergency situation or urgent crisis
  • You are a minor or you are under the care of a legal guardian
  • You have been diagnosed with a severe mental illness, or have been advised to be in psychological supervision or psychiatric care
  • You are required to undergo therapy or counseling either by a court order or by any other authority
  • You do not have a device that can connect to the internet or you do not have a reliable internet connection.