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In simple terms, online counselling is about using text to communicate with a professional counsellor from a computer. Different online counselling methods can include web chat in real time, email communication or remote communication using videoconferencing. CounsellingOnline offers services using secure, one-to-one chat with professional counsellors.
Online delivery is still a relatively new method of accessing support for drug and alcohol or other health issues. Like traditional face to face or telephone counselling, there are both potential advantages and disadvantages with the online environment. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide how and when you choose to access assistance. Please take the time to read more about both the strengths and the weaknesses of the online environment. This will help to make your experience of online counselling a more positive and informed one.
The online environment offers enormous flexibility and convenience to anyone with access to a computer with the Internet. This can be accessed from different settings (e.g. home, work, other), any geographical area and all times of day. People are able to access professional support when they choose with minimal barriers or delays such as waiting lists or travel in most cases. This can be particularly important for people living in rural or isolated areas, people with limited time available or those who have difficulty in accessing other counselling services in the community. Online counselling is also typically less expensive than face-to-face counselling services. As a new initiative funded by the Commonwealth Government, all services provided by CounsellingOnline are free.
Support is available to people who may be seeking counselling for the first time, people needing additional support while in treatment or those who may just want to find out more about the kinds of help available for themselves or a friend/relative.
Many people experience a sense of stigma or shame around issues like a drug or alcohol problem. The opportunity for anonymous and confidential support online can help many people feel safer and more in control when they communicate about their concerns. To find out more about how CounsellingOnline manages your confidentiality or privacy, please click here.
The process of writing your thoughts and feelings can be particularly powerful for some people. For some, this can help to focus their thoughts and concerns. Text-interaction also gives you the option to reflect or re-read your communication with your counsellor.
The online environment may not be suitable for you if you are currently in a crisis situation. If you are seeking help for a medical emergency or crisis involving personal safety (e.g. suicidal feelings, domestic violence or homicide), please contact one of the Emergency support services listed in our Resource Room for immediate telephone assistance. CounsellingOnline counsellors are also available to provide immediate telephone support through the 24-hour alcohol and drug service DirectLine on 1800 888 236.
The lack of visual cues (such as body language or facial expressions) when you are online can make communication challenging for both you and your counsellor. In some cases, the speed of text-communication may limit the amount or information available or the ability to convey emotions and feelings effectively. In some cases, the lack of visual cues that we take for granted in face-to-face communication can lead to potential misunderstandings or misinterpretation online. If you have any concerns about your communication with a counsellor, please check this out with the counsellor directly (if you feel able) or raise this through the Feedback option on the website.
While services such as CounsellingOnline make every effort to secure the privacy of your information, there are still potential security risks. These can include issues around the security of information systems by the service provider, the security of information transmission and security on the computer you are using. To find out more about Security and Privacy on CounsellingOnline, please view our privacy policy and information on your online security. These pages also include helpful tips on how to keep your computer clean and safe.
As the online environment is still relatively new, the effectiveness of online support methods is not yet known. A range of research studies on online health delivery are currently in development. At CounsellingOnline, you have the opportunity to provide feedback about your experience of this service, which will contribute to our knowledge and research in this area.
