If you’re wondering whether therapy can really work online, you’re not alone, it’s one of the questions people ask me most often. The short answer? Yes. Not because it’s exactly the same as sitting together in the same room, but because therapy isn’t created by four walls. It’s created by the relationship we build.
I’ve laughed with people online, I’ve sat quietly with people while they’ve cried, I’ve witnessed huge moments of insight, grief, relief and joy through a screen. The connection is still there. Sometimes, it’s even easier. Many people tell me they feel more comfortable talking from their own space. There might be a cup of tea beside them, a favourite blanket, their dog asleep at their feet, or simply the comfort of being somewhere familiar. For some people, that makes it easier to talk and online therapy is simply what makes therapy possible.
You might have caring responsibilities, you might work shifts, you might live somewhere without a therapist who understands neurodivergence, religious trauma or LGBTQIA+ identities, you might find travelling overwhelming or exhausting, or perhaps staying in your own environment simply feels more manageable. Whatever the reason, online therapy can offer flexibility without losing the depth of the work we do together.
One thing that’s important to me is that you don’t feel you have to do online therapy ‘properly’. Some people sit at a desk, or curl up on the sofa, some have their camera on all session, while others need to turn it off for a while. We’ll work out what helps you feel most comfortable.
As with all of my work, I don’t have a right way that I expect you to do therapy. We’ll find what works for you.
A few practical things; All online sessions take place using a secure video platform. Before we begin, I’ll send you everything you need, including a link to join the session. You’ll just need somewhere you feel able to talk privately and a reliable internet connection. If technology ever lets us down, and occasionally it does, we’ll have a plan for reconnecting so you don’t need to worry.
If you’re not sure whether online therapy is right for you, that’s absolutely okay. You’re welcome to arrange a free 15-minute call. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, get a feel for how I work, and decide whether we’d be a good fit. There’s no pressure and no obligation. Just a conversation.
