How Does Online Counselling Work?
What to expect from booking to your first session, and after.
Book a time
Choose a slot in our online calendar, or call or WhatsApp us and we will arrange one with you.
Confirm the details
We confirm your counsellor, language, fee and session length with you before the session.
Join your session
Join the video session at the agreed time from a private, quiet place. Nobody else needs to know.
How does online counselling work?
Online counselling works much like meeting a counsellor in person, except that you talk by video from a private place of your choice. You book a time, we confirm the details with you, and you join the session from your phone or computer. Here is what to expect at each step.
Before your first session
When you book, tell us briefly what you would like help with and your preferred language: English, Hindi or Gujarati. We confirm your counsellor, the fee, the session length and how to join. You do not need to prepare anything special, but our guide on how to prepare for your first counselling session may help.
What happens in an online counselling session
The first session focuses on understanding you: what is happening, how long it has been going on, and what you would like to change. Later sessions build on this, using the approach your counsellor has explained and agreed with you.
Is online counselling effective?
For many common concerns, such as anxiety, stress, low mood and relationship problems, talking to a trained professional by video can work well, and many people find it easier to open up from home. It is not suitable as the only support in an emergency. Read more in is online counselling effective?
Privacy and confidentiality
What you discuss in a session is confidential. Your counsellor will explain how notes are kept and the limited situations, such as a risk to someone’s safety, in which confidentiality may be broken. For children and teenagers, consent and parent involvement are agreed first.
After the first session
You and your counsellor will discuss whether further sessions are recommended, what they would focus on and how progress will be reviewed. You can stop or pause at any time.
Frequently asked questions
Is online counselling effective?
For many common concerns, such as anxiety, low mood, stress and relationship difficulties, talking to a trained professional by video can work well, and many people find it easier to open up from home. It is not suitable as the only support in an emergency. If your counsellor feels another kind of help would suit you better, they will tell you. Read more about online counselling.
What happens in the first counselling session?
Your counsellor asks what has brought you to counselling, how it affects your daily life and what you would like to change. You can share as much or as little as you like. At the end you discuss whether further sessions would help and what they would focus on.
What do I need for an online session?
A phone, tablet or computer with a camera, a working internet connection, headphones if possible, and a quiet, private place. Joining details are shared after booking.
How long is a session, and how often?
Session length is confirmed when you book. Many people meet weekly or fortnightly at first; your counsellor will suggest a rhythm that suits your concern and your schedule.
Is online counselling confidential?
Yes. What you discuss in a session is confidential. Your counsellor will explain how notes are kept and the limited situations, such as a serious risk to someone’s safety, in which confidentiality may have to be broken. You join from your own private space, so there is no waiting room.
What if I feel nervous about talking to a therapist?
That is completely normal. You can tell your counsellor you are nervous; it is a good place to start. It is fine to go slowly and to say “I am not ready to talk about that yet”.
Book a Session
Choose a time online, or call or WhatsApp us on +91 90707 19090.