Top 10 Benefits of Online Counseling

Rethinking the Way to Receive Counseling

Imagine yourself going to a counselor.  

The first step: find a good counselor.  

Second step: make an appointment - getting an appointment may take 1 - 3 weeks.  

Third step: mapquest directions to the office.  

Fourth step:  meet with the counselor - face to face.  

Today counseling methods are being rethought.  Advances in technology have opened doors so counseling can be provided through the internet, email, chat and on the telephone.  Online counseling has been around for over a decade.  Counselors are rethinking online counseling and realizing it is a viable method of providing therapy to their clients.

Why is online counseling becoming more popular?

On line counseling allows flexibility

I think it is because we have come into an age where the internet and social media are primary methods of communication.  Let's face it, old and young are now connected to mobile devices.  It is the norm to have a cell phones.  We live in a world of smart phones, tablets, laptop computers, Facebook, Skype, IM, Twitter, Wii, etc.  There is an increasing consumer  demand to provide services through the internet. 

After several years as an "in person only" face to face counselor,I have rethought my methods of providing counseling.  Today, I primarily provide online counseling.   My focus is as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor. Online counselors have a variety of specialties. 

You, or someone you know, may be interested in learning more about online counseling.  I created a list of ten benefits of online counseling. 

On-Line Counseling . . .

1. provides counseling with a professional counselor.

2. is available for isolated and mobile populations.

3. allows anonymity. 

On line counseling is helpful if you live in a rural community. 

4. is convenient and flexible - you can send an email question or schedule an appointment on your time schedule.
5. may include email allowing you to ask thought out questions and receive answers that can be read . . . . over and over. 
6. websites often provide free resources you can view on your mobile device.
7. is great for the person who enjoys the written word and video interaction. 

8. uses convenient and secure payment through online payment and PayPal.
9. is cost friendly - especially since you do not have to travel to meet with your counselor.

10. is a comfortable and relaxing way to interact with a counselor.

It is important to note that online counseling is not for everyone.  
For example, it is not for the person in crisis or suicidal, or who requires in person care.  

If you are looking for a counselor and you travel, live in a rural or isolated community, are shy, home bound, want to avoid social stigma, and wanted flexibility online counseling may be for you. 

To learn more about online counseling, to schedule a free 30 minute consultation or view free resources on recovery topics check out my web page: www.stages2change.com.