Online counselling sessions are exactly the same as in-office counselling sessions, except that you don't have to leave home.

The session is face to face (we can see and hear one another just as we would if we were all in the same room). Sessions are usually conducted via Zoom (free and easy to use) but if there's another application you prefer, please let me know and I can do my best to accommodate this. 

Once you book, you choose a time via my calendar, and I'll send you our private meeting link. On the day, simply click the link to enter the video meeting.

I'll send you simple instructions for logging in, and you can contact me at any time if there is any confusion.

No. Some couples choose to sit together at the same computer.

However, sometimes it can be more convenient to log in from different places (for example, if one partner is held up at work). You can each join the meeting from your own computer wherever you are.

• Comfort and privacy: many couples are initially a little nervous about coming to counselling. For many, online modalities can provide a more comfortable way to engage with a counsellor
• Convenience: Many couples are juggling busy weeks and schedules. Online counselling means eliminating travel and parking time, so you have more time to relax and do other things on session days
• Childcare: Online sessions also give you the option of setting children up with activities in another room, as opposed to having to find childcare for the length of the session (and transit to and from the session)
• Greater choice: Online counselling gives couples more choices in terms of which practitioner they choose; it means you are not limited by how far away the office is from your home 

Studies show online counselling to be as effective as traditional, in-office modalities. However, there are some things you should keep in mind:

• You need access to a suitable smartphone or computer, and internet connection (It doesn't need to be anything fancy, so long as you can run Zoom. Generally, if you can make a Facebook messenger call, your device can also handle Zoom)
• You need a suitable private place to sit and participate in the session which is free of noise and distractions

Online counselling is no more complicated than in-office counselling. However, for your first couple of sessions in particular, it's a good idea to begin setting up about 10-15 minutes in advance, to make sure our session goes smoothly.

Here is a checklist you might find helpful:

• I have created my free 'Zoom' account 
• I have set up my computer or smartphone in a private/quiet, comfortable area
• I have checked the camera and microphone on my computer or smartphone are working
• I have some tissues handy in case they are needed
• I have a glass of water or tea or coffee ready
• I have set up the seating and computer in such a way that my partner and I can both be heard (you want the computer as close as possible, generally)

Zoom is a free virtual meetings program. I have chosen Zoom because many people are already familiar with it. If you aren't, no worries!

On your computer you can sign up for free here:

https://zoom.us/signup#/signup

On your smartphone, you can install Zoom using the app store (or Google Play store). Just search for 'Zoom' in the app store.

If for some reason you have a very strong preference for another platform (example Google Meet, or Teams) let me know and we can organise the use of a different app.

I insist on using video conferencing because being able to see one another is such a vital part of a successful session.

Video allows us to see one another's facial expressions and body language, and to create the same experience we would have in a traditional in-office setting. 

It also allows me to share resources/session aids including diagrams, pictures and activities etc from time to time.