Online Counseling - Is It For You?

By Dave Turo-Shields, LCSW, CEC

It is said that nearly one in twenty adults in the United States of America have some or the other degree of mental health issues. While for most of us it could range from common phobias and fears, others could have more serious problems. But not everybody will readily admit that they need professional counseling to help them deal with their issues.

Some could be in denial while still others could be plain embarrassed. At times like these, when offline counseling is not a viable option, one could consider what has come to be known as online counseling. Online counseling, as the name suggests is counseling offered by professional practitioners online. It could take the form of e-mail correspondence, chat sessions, voice calls or even video conferencing over the Internet.

There are several pros and cons of online counseling. First, let us tackle the pros. Online counseling is an easy, convenient and affordable way of seeking professional help and guidance. You can do so at your time, your convenience and best of all with a certain degree of anonymity.

The flexibility of online counseling is appealing to many of the individuals who utilize this service. When polled, over 95% of those who have sought online counseling would do so again if the need would arise. Again, it's fits 'your' schedule and 'priorities' making it a great service for those in need.

Some struggle so much that they often cannot function or leave their homes. Online counseling is a great fit for this type of person. However, there are many reasons to access an online counselor. One example is a high profile client within their community who'd rather not have anyone know they are seeking help. This person could work with someone several states away or even from a different country if you'd prefer that.

There are some difficulties that cannot and should not be addressed through email or by phone. For instance, if you are contemplating suicide you should definitely be seeing someone locally so that proper hospital referrals can be made if the need arises. You are compelled to do your homework for online counseling and the specific therapist you're considering working with. It's very easy to fool individuals online and you want to make sure of two things. First, your counselor should be trained in the area you're struggling with and you should also have a phone number to call and make sure you're working with a professional and not some sophomore psychology student who's trying to make an extra buck.

Your trust is the most important thing an online counselor can protect. It's okay to ask him or her how they protect your confidentiality online. I've seen well-meaning therapists interact with their online counseling clients in a forum after a phone session. Unless that forum is secure, this could accidentally result in your privacy being violated. On the othe hand, don't be offended if you invite your counselor to join your Facebook account and they don't respond. They're simply protecting you. It's part of their job.

Whatever you choose however, do remember that online counseling is one of the ways in which you could help yourself or a loved one deal with issues. Use it with care as you would any other medical or mental treatment. And there is no reason why you should not benefit from online counseling.

About the Author:

Author and Online Counseling Pioneer Dave Turo-Shields. Go with 10-years online counseling experience. Learn more at: http://www.CounselingPros.com