If you would like to talk some more about online therapy sessions, you can find my contact details by clicking the button below. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Online Counselling
If you have read my about me page you will know that I am an experienced degree qualified counsellor registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I hold a current Disclosure and Barring Certificate (DBS) certificate and all my client work is fully insured. I am also registered with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) https://ico.org.uk/ so you know that your personal data is protected. Below is some information and answers to some frequently asked questions about how you can access support online.
How do I set up online sessions?
If you contact me to arrange online counselling sessions, I would initially ask for some details about the reasons you are seeking counselling to ensure that online therapy is suitable for you and your particular issue. If after that we then decided to go ahead, you would need to complete and sign an agreement which includes details about confidentiality, sessions and the practical aspects of how online counselling works. Please note that online counselling it is not suitable for you if you are experiencing acute distress or have an enduring mental health illness. Please, if you feel you are in crisis or are in danger of harming yourself then contact your General Practitioner GP and ask for an emergency appointment or in the UK call 111 out of hours. If you have a mental health crisis team, let them know that you require urgent help and if you need emergency medical help call the emergency services immediately.
Is it Confidential?
What you speak about in your session is confidential except in certain circumstances and this is detailed in our counselling agreement. For example, if you speak about money laundering, terrorism or drug trafficking activities there is a legal requirement for me as your therapist to report this to the appropriate authorities. In addition, if you speak about serious harm to yourself or others or concerns are raised regarding child protection this may also need further action but if possible I would aim to discuss this with you first.
What will I need for online sessions?
Good and reliable internet and a computer, phone or tablet with a camera function and microphone. You would also need to download the 'Zoom' platform on the device you want to use for your sessions. It is also important that you find a private and comfortable space where you will not be disturbed during your session so you feel able to talk freely. Please make sure that you will not be overlooked or disturbed.
How often do I need sessions?
For you to gain maximum therapeutic benefit; we do need to be in regular contact. This is usually weekly but this can be reviewed at regular intervals.
How do I know my details will be secure?
I am registered with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) as a controller of sensitive data and work to their standards for storing any information about you. You can check my registration on the ICO webpage and find more information at: https://ico.org.uk/ Please be assured that I will always do my utmost to ensure your data is kept safe but please note that in spite of security measures, programs do exist that can snoop on internet traffic. This means that although this is unlikely as encrypted communications offer a high level of security, live sessions can in some exceptional circumstances be intercepted.
Additional Information
Although I have insurance for personal liability and professional indemnity which covers me to work anywhere in the world, some countries have different legislation regarding online counselling so any claims made against me will be subject to UK law