With the advent of high-speed Internet connections and the common inclusion of built-in cameras and microphones on both laptops and desktops, it is now possible for therapists and their clients to engage in virtual online therapy, what I and many others have come to call "iCounseling.
" Though virtual online counseling isn't for everyone, it can have numerous advantages for both clients and their therapists.
1.
) Cost: Prices for therapy vary from city to city and from state to state.
A therapist in Allen, TX will likely charge far less than a therapist in Manhattan, NY.
With virtual online counseling sessions, a client can see a therapist that is within his or her budget.
2.
) Convenience: Given the ultra-busy nature of our lives today, being able to see a therapist online cuts down on significant travel time.
One can see an online therapist from the convenience of one's own home.
3.
) Choice: Not everyone has a local therapist that is compatible with his or her requirements for a therapist.
With Internet-based counseling, clients can see a therapist that is more suited for their needs.
Of course, as with any client-therapist relationship, there are basic questions you should ask before you commit your time and resources to online therapy.
1.
) Experience: You should make sure that the therapist has experience in the area for which you're seeking counseling.
All therapists have their areas of expertise.
If someone specializes in grief counseling, they may not be the best choice for couples therapy, though many therapists deal with a wide-range of issues.
2.
) Gender: Some people are more comfortable speaking to a member of the same sex while others are just the opposite.
The types of issues you're dealing with may help you decide.
3.
) Counselor Background: Some clients are looking for counselors with specific religious or other backgrounds that are similar to their own.
Therapists have their own convictions about the world, God, values, etc.
just as clients do.
It's worthwhile making sure you will engage in counseling with someone you can trust.
4.
) Comfort Level: Perhaps the most important criterion is simply whether you would feel baring your heart and soul to someone over the Internet.
It can be difficult to find a therapist who is easy to relate with in a "virtual environment," but most experienced Internet Counselors are happy to answer any questions you might have.
5.
) Qualifications: Finally, you want to make sure that the therapist you've chosen is licensed in the state in which he or she practices.
Do they see clients onsite as well? Make sure they have an established practice before you engage in virtual therapy.
Don't be hesitant to email them or call before you schedule your first online session.
" Though virtual online counseling isn't for everyone, it can have numerous advantages for both clients and their therapists.
1.
) Cost: Prices for therapy vary from city to city and from state to state.
A therapist in Allen, TX will likely charge far less than a therapist in Manhattan, NY.
With virtual online counseling sessions, a client can see a therapist that is within his or her budget.
2.
) Convenience: Given the ultra-busy nature of our lives today, being able to see a therapist online cuts down on significant travel time.
One can see an online therapist from the convenience of one's own home.
3.
) Choice: Not everyone has a local therapist that is compatible with his or her requirements for a therapist.
With Internet-based counseling, clients can see a therapist that is more suited for their needs.
Of course, as with any client-therapist relationship, there are basic questions you should ask before you commit your time and resources to online therapy.
1.
) Experience: You should make sure that the therapist has experience in the area for which you're seeking counseling.
All therapists have their areas of expertise.
If someone specializes in grief counseling, they may not be the best choice for couples therapy, though many therapists deal with a wide-range of issues.
2.
) Gender: Some people are more comfortable speaking to a member of the same sex while others are just the opposite.
The types of issues you're dealing with may help you decide.
3.
) Counselor Background: Some clients are looking for counselors with specific religious or other backgrounds that are similar to their own.
Therapists have their own convictions about the world, God, values, etc.
just as clients do.
It's worthwhile making sure you will engage in counseling with someone you can trust.
4.
) Comfort Level: Perhaps the most important criterion is simply whether you would feel baring your heart and soul to someone over the Internet.
It can be difficult to find a therapist who is easy to relate with in a "virtual environment," but most experienced Internet Counselors are happy to answer any questions you might have.
5.
) Qualifications: Finally, you want to make sure that the therapist you've chosen is licensed in the state in which he or she practices.
Do they see clients onsite as well? Make sure they have an established practice before you engage in virtual therapy.
Don't be hesitant to email them or call before you schedule your first online session.
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