Why would I choose counselling online rather than face-to-face?
For many people, counselling online is an ideal way of seeking help and support. You don't have to travel, you can respond in your own time and you don't need to let others know that you are seeking help. Although talking to a counsellor online takes a bit of getting used to, rather than face to face, it can be easier to talk anonymously and you have time to think about things.

How long will it be before I can solve any problems I may be experiencing?
Sometimes problems and issues can resolve themselves quite quickly and for others it may take longer. So it could take just one session or it could take a month or longer.  The counsellor you speak to can arrange a framework of say, six sessions or it can be left open. You set the pace and the decision about when you need it.

What if I need a break from counselling?
You only book one counselling session at a time so it is always within your control, unless you choose a structured Therapy Plan. You never commit to more than one counselling session although when you build up trust with the counsellor, you will find it easier to be honest about your worries.

What if  my computer breaks down?
Sometimes computers break down and email addresses fail. If this happens, we have a forwarding email breakdown @ poastbox.com (take out the gaps) which forwards to our website email address which is confidential and will be given to your counsellor. We would ask you to send an email from a friend's computer or Internet café to the forwarding email with a simple message i.e. "Susan would like to send a message to (first name of counsellor) to say that her computer is in for repair and she will be in touch soon." We do not chase people as our service is confidential and if you don't contact us, we won't contact you.

Do I have to give you my real name?
The way we work here at Counsellor Online is that we don't exchange names. The counsellor will only give you his or her first name and you do not have to give your name. We have found that this frees the counsellor and the client as it offers more confidentiality. We ask that you send the contract form to show that you have read and accept the contract but it doesn't have to be your real name unless you feel comfortable with that but your email address must be real for obvious reasons. We keep these online contract agreements for one year and they are then destroyed.

How do I know that you are qualified to help?
All of the counsellors who work for Counsellor Online are experienced and qualified counsellors. They are all qualified to at least Diploma Level, which means you can be certain that your counsellor is a professionally trained counsellor with a proven track record, working to BACP's code of ethics and offering complete confidentiality within the contract guidelines.

What happens to my details when I have finished counselling?
When you have finished counselling, your email address and all details will be destroyed. Hard copies are not kept and if you decide to have more counselling later on, you will start again with no history. This may be difficult but it is the only way that we can maintain confidentiality and security for you.