For some people, online counselling provides the opportunity to engage in therapy when face-to-face counselling may not be available or suitable. However, there are some limitations to online therapy, and we suggest you read these in order to make an informed decision. One of our counsellors can discuss any questions you have prior to our therapeutic work beginning.
In some cases, Direct Counselling UK may decide that online therapy is not appropriate for a particular client. In this event, we will advise the client to seek qualified face-to-face counselling their residential area.
There is no set up or installation required for email counselling, though clients will need to have a basic understanding of the internet and have a password-protected email account for correspondence.
Clients requiring online video counselling will need to have a webcam and a video conferencing application (MSN Messenger or Skype), and be confident in how to use these.
Direct Counselling UK fulfills all commitments to data security as required by BACP national guidelines. The client, however, is responsible for protecting their own personal information (by storing electronic data securely, deleting your ‘history’ after online sessions, and taking extra care when using shared computers or public internet facilities, for example).
Your counsellor will take a copy of all emails and conversations that take place during the course of your therapy. These files are stored securely by your counsellor, and are required by BACP guidelines. You can also print out or save files and emails for your own records, but we strongly advise that you store any personal information securely.
All information stored by your counsellor is done so in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.