Online Counselling in Australia (Telehealth Counselling)
Diane McGeachy
Psychologist
Gestalt Psychotherapist
Hobart, Tasmania
Telehealth is the use of digital information and communication technologies, such as computers and mobile devices, to access health care services remotely. Telehealth counselling takes place online most often via video conferencing or via telephone. This form of counselling is effective, confidential and convenient for many people. There are several online platforms that use encrypted technology which makes it a safe and confidential means of participating in online counselling. Research has shown that the quality of the therapeutic relationship via telehealth is comparable to face to face counselling. Telehealth is ideal for professionals and families working and living overseas, international students, travellers, those who live in rural and remote areas with limited access to local therapists and for people who prefer to have their counselling appointment from the privacy and comfort of their own home.
Advantages of Telehealth Counselling
- Access counselling within your own home
- Accessible for people living in rural and remote areas
- Living in/travelling between multiple locations
- Difficulties travelling to an office appointment
- Hassel free not having to find and pay for parking
- Conveniently accessed from your phone, computer or iPad/tablet
- Increased accessibility for those with family and work commitments
- Suited for individuals with a high need for confidentiality
- Access help and support for issues quickly (for example without a referral or waiting until you have returned from overseas)
- See a therapist of your choosing regardless of where you live
What Takes Place in a Telehealth Counselling Appointment
You can expect the following from your therapist:
- Empathy and understanding
- Acceptance and a nonjudgmental experience
- Assistance in identifying patterns of thinking and behaving
- Exploration of your personal process and how it helps and may hinder you
- Discovery of different and new ways of thinking and doing things
- Collaborative experience between client and therapist to understand oneself more deeply and to increase one’s awareness
- Learning practical skills and tools to implement related to specific concerns
- A safe environment where you can express what you need to
Issues Suitable for Telehealth Counselling
- Anxiety and Panic
- Depression/Low Mood
- Relationship Counselling
- Childhood Trauma
- Self Esteem
- Eating Disorders
- Body Image Concerns
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Anger Management
- Sexual Health
- LGBTI Issues (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex)
- Personal Development
- Mindfulness Practice and Meditation
- Stress
- Social Anxiety
- Workplace Issues
- Grief and Loss
Telehealth counselling is not an emergency service. If you are feeling at risk of harming yourself or others it is important that you seek help from your local emergency services and GP. You can also phone Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14
How to Arrange a Telehealth Appointment
Making an appointment for a Telehealth counselling session is an easy process.
- Send an email briefly outlining the issues that you would like to address during your counselling appointment
- Provide a range of days and times that would be suitable for you
- Your therapist will make contact with you via email confirming your appointment
- Your therapist will provide you with information prior to your appointment regarding which platform will be used for your online appointment and how to access it (common platforms include Zoom, Doxy, thera-LINK, coview and more)
- Your therapist will provide you with a second option as an alternative, if needed
Privacy and Confidentiality
- Telehealth counselling is private and confidential just as a face to face counselling appointment would be
- Platforms used for Telehealth appointments use encrypted technology to protect confidentiality
- Ensure the room you will be using is private and away from others
If you would like to book an appointment face to face at Hobart Counselling Centre, Tasmania or a Telehealth counselling appointment please contact Diane McGeachy.
Diane McGeachy
Psychologist
Gestalt Psychotherapist
Phone: (03) 6285 8592
Email: enquiries@hobartcounselling.com.au
Hobart Counselling Centre
Level 1,
181 Elizabeth Street Hobart TAS 7000
www.hobartcounselling.com.au