Benefits of Online and Distance Counseling
Online psychological counseling is spreading throughout the world. This trend goes hand in hand with a continuous increase in the presence of the Internet in everyday lives.
So, even psychologists have had to combine the classic “bed” (or chair) tools with chats, emails, and voice and video calls over the Internet (e.g. Skype). In fact, even long-distance consultations can be made with these instruments.
Some psychologists have raised their eyebrows at these new methods because of the important differences in online counseling compared to counseling in a traditional psychological setting.
Online consultation makes difficult the following aspects: the interpretation of non-verbal language (facial expressions, tone of voice, and posture), the feeling of being in a controlled and protected environment (the office of the psychologist), and practice exercises (e.g. relaxation techniques).
It should be noted, however, that in some cases remote psychological support is not recommended. For example, in the case of psychotic disorders or when someone’s life is at risk. In these cases it’s advisable to turn to professionals in person and to the relevant local services.
Why Choose Online Psychological Counseling?
• No wasting of time: I do not have to go to the psychologist’s office.
• Anonymity: no one will see me go to the psychologist. If I opt for counseling via chat or phone, the psychologist will not even see my face. Even the most timid or worried person concerned about their social image can rest easy.
• It reduces self-consciousness and embarrassment: the distance helps people speak about their difficulties more easily than in face-to-face consultations.
• It can be used when traveling: it allows for a constant psychologist-client relationship.
• Psychologists can easily access people with physical disabilities (e.g. those in wheelchairs) or people living in remote places where traveling is difficult.
• Counseling via email or chat allows you to respond when you have free time as there is no appointment. Therefore, people may think twice before writing or responding to a message. In addition, messages are stored and you can continue thinking about them and revising them over time.
To summarize, online psychological counseling is rapidly spreading because it has economic advantages (saves time for travel), psychological advantages (decreases shyness and embarrassment), and accessibility (easy access from almost anywhere).
I remain at your absolute disposal for consultations in person and at a distance via phone and Skype.
Dr. Andrea Miriello
Business Psychologist
Consultant, Business Coach, and Trainer