Online Counselling
Many people have experienced increased stress, anxiety and depression over the last few years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Due to events concerning COVID-19 and public health measures, the demand for online counselling has grown exponentially. More options are available than ever, especially with businesses like “BetterHelp” and “Talkspace” entering the market. BetterHelp and Talkspace advertise their online counselling and therapy services as being “convenient and affordable” - but we don’t believe that texting = trauma therapy. We believe quality should never be sacrificed for convenience.
We believe in a more personal approach - where the fit and relationship between client and therapist is prioritized. Where you feel known and cared for as an individual, and not like a number on a list an overburdened counsellor is trying to get through.
Online counselling is an effective way to manage your mental health.
As trauma-informed therapists we are prepared to help you process and understand the difficult emotions, reactions and questions you might be having. We are equipped with an understanding of how the stress of these circumstances are causing disruptions to your mental, emotional, social, and physiological wellbeing, and to find ways to address them.
It is possible to find peace and empowerment in a time of upheaval and uncertainty.
It is possible to find relief and enrichment in a time of grief and difficulty.
However you have been responding to the events in your life and across the globe, know that your feelings are normal. If you’ve been having difficult or uncomfortable feelings (or an exacerbation of your mental health difficulties), know that this is to be expected in light of the changes to our world and the uncertainty we face.
Please consider how to best take care of yourself during this time and how counselling may help you.
SOME BENEFITS OF ONLINE COUNSELLING
You can wear anything you want, pajamas are welcome and encouraged.
Your dogs and cats or other pets can attend therapy with you.
You may meet your therapist’s dogs or cats.
Get cozy. This isn’t a work meeting, there’s no need to look professional. Log in from whatever environment suits you the best and surround yourself with what makes you feel your best:
Cozy blankets? Essential oils? Drinks, fidgets or your vape pen?
You don’t have to leave your house. No rain, snow or traffic to think about or deal with. Just show up :)
If you are considering online therapy, always look for a professional with verified credentials and who has expertise in the matters you’re seeking help with. Online therapy requires a different skill-set than in-person counselling, so make sure you choose a counsellor who’s competent in online counselling and not one that is just trying to keep up with the trends.
We approach online counselling the same way we approach our in-person sessions: by building a strong relationship between therapist and counsellor, and using effective and evidence-based approaches to help our clients meet their goals. If you are looking for a counsellor trained in EMDR, OEI, Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), compassionate inquiry, narrative or emotion-focused therapy, we have someone for you.
Browse our team members here or get in touch with us today and our team will help pair you with the best online counsellor for your unique preferences, issues and goals.
Or if you’re ready, you can book an appointment anytime by visiting our online schedule on JaneApp.
Our counsellors are competent in and comfortable with online therapy - and we know how to help our clients feel comfortable too.
Many people are apprehensive about online counselling - Will it work? Will it feel awkward?
Even before the COVID pandemic began, the results of various studies demonstrate that online therapy is equally as effective as face-to-face treatment for various mental health concerns.
Is it awkward? It can be! But probably only for the first few minutes. Doing anything new and unfamiliar can be anxiety-provoking, but our counsellors know how to help clients quickly settle in and feel at ease. You may be surprised to see how little time it takes to feel comfortable with and connected to your counsellor, and how quickly you can start making progress.
Additional Reasons to Choose Online Counselling:
More efficient: No driving across town, waiting in traffic, or filling up the gas tank.
Fits into your busy schedule: Whatever the demands of your schedule, you can fit in an online session at a day and time that is convenient for you.
More choice: You aren’t limited to the counsellors in your neighbourhood or vicinity. A broader range of therapists in different areas is available to you to choose from. You don’t need to live close to an expert to work with an expert.
More comfortable: Maybe you have an injury, illness, or anxiety that makes it hard to travel and attend in-person sessions. With online counselling, you can remain in a comfortable environment and care for your needs.
Tips for Making the Most of Online Counselling
Give yourself a few extra minutes to get set up, especially if this is your first time. We send you an email 30 minutes before your appointment with a link to our secure telehealth platform - getting connected is simple and secure.
Make sure your environment is comfortable and private. You’ll want a space where you can speak openly without fear of being overheard. You’ll also want a space that’s comfortable to spend time in. We’ve counselled people from their bedroom, workplace office, and even their car.
Maximize your bandwidth. Select a spot that’s well in range of your WiFi or cellular service. Depending on your internet, you may need to ask household members to abstain from high demand internet activities like streaming videos- just for an hour!
Reduce distractions. Close or minimize windows on your computer. Turn notifications off. Put your phone out of reach, and choose an environment where you won’t be distracted.
Use headphones for the best audio quality.
Go handsfree. Find a flat surface where you can securely prop your laptop, phone or tablet - it may sound small, but it makes a big difference!
If you are considering counselling, we encourage you to try a free consultation call with one or more of our team members who specialize in treating various types of trauma:
Violetta Przeworski, (online and in-person)
Ryan Newman (in-person and online)
Denea Maughan (online only)