Online therapy is the same process as in-person counselling or psychotherapy it’s just that instead of talking in the same room, we talk over computers screens.
The benefit of programs like Zoom and Skype is that you are able to physically see me from the comfort of your own location anywhere in the world.
Video counselling works as well as face to face, and in the case of some disorders, it can give more flexibility or even work better.
Things to bear in mind: video sessions are not exactly the same as face to face. Firstly you see only what is displayed on your screen, so it may be easy at times to assume that your therapist is not engaged when in fact they are just taking notes off-screen. It may arise some confidentiality issues, however, Skype and Zoom will not collect your personal information and sessions are not recorded. Video calls take place using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption in case of Zoom and Skype uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to ensure they remain confidential.
Zoom
Once you’ve booked a session I’ll email you the invitation to our Zoom session with a link to access it.
You will be prompted to download the software, once you have clicked on the link that you have been provided. You do not have to have a Zoom account to attend a Zoom session.
A little step by step how to join a Zoom session: Join
Skype
Once you’ve booked a session I’ll email you my Skype details.
Some helpful links on how to instal and connect via Skype: Instal, Connect
Some tips on how to achieve the best quality of our video session:
1. A laptop or desktop is preferred over a smartphone. If you have a high-quality web camera and headset you can use it to enhance the quality of video and sound (but it’s not necessary).
2. Stay indoors for the session as wind and background noise may decrease the quality of sound.
3. Close all unnecessary applications during your call so all processing power can be used to maximise the quality of our video session.
4. Make sure you have a good source of light in front of you.
5. Organise space where you can speak in confidence. You need to feel comfortable and relaxed. Sit at a distance from your device, so I can see your face, torso and arms. If attending a hypnotherapy session you can lie down if that is more comfortable, prepare your space in advance, use cushions, blankets, anything that will make you feel relaxed. Always keep in mind where the best place possible is to put your device as I need to see how your body and face relax.
What my clients say about video counselling and hypnotherapy experience:
“Anna’s video therapy sessions are great! You get all the benefits of a session with her but without having to leave the comfort of your own home, all you need it a quiet place to sit/lay and the Internet. Anna’s video sessions have been invaluable to me especially on those bad days when the feeling of leaving the house is too much. Anna’s sessions allow me to see her to discuss my problems and for her to still do her hypnotherapy on me to help me through and overcome. I think these sessions are an excellent idea and have been a real help to me.”
“Skype has been very useful for my hypnotherapy sessions if for whatever reason I have been unable to have one in person. If anything, it’s a lot easier and more relaxing as there is no travel and you are in your own comfortable environment. I have found being in my bedroom and comfortable under a blanket makes for a really nice scenario with online sessions and it really helps you relax which is always useful with hypnotherapy! Would highly recommend Skype sessions with Anna, she makes it very easy and beneficial”.
“Due to these unexpected circumstances, Anna offered me sessions via Skype. The idea of it made me feel slightly weird but the actual session was good. It’s just a bit different but the aim is the same so I’m satisfied. The line was good as well so no technical problem.”