Getting ready for online counselling.
Video chats may not be new to you, but it might be the first time you have considered trying online counselling. I want you to feel comfortable and relaxed right from the start, so here is a list of suggestions to help you get ready.
- Zoom or Skype can used on a tablet, iPad, PC, Laptop or a mobile phone.
- Make sure you download Zoom or download Skype onto your equipment (click on the blue link).
- Find a place or a room that is private, so that our conversation won't be overheard.
- Remember to put your phone on 'silent'.
- Let others know that you don't want to be disturbed.
- If you are using a portable device, can you prop it up on a stand, a desk, or something else so that you don't need to hold it in your hand? That way you can concentrate more on the session and less on keeping the device still.
- If possible, sit somewhere comfortable enough to stay on for an hour without having to move around too much.
- Try not to sit with your back to a window or any other bright light, because it makes it harder for me to see you clearly.
- Have a glass of water ready, talking can make you thirsty.
- You might want to have a notepad or paper and pen handy.
- In my counselling room, I always have a box of tissues handy just in case.
Logging On - If you are using Zoom, as long as you have the application downloaded onto your device, I will send you a link by email or text message and by clicking on that link you can join me online at a prearranged time.
- If you choose to use Skype then you will need to set up a free account - You can find me by searching for either my user name 'Peter Hutt Counselling' or my ID which is 'plhutt'.
I hope this list will help you to get started. If you need any help setting up Zoom or Skype then please get in touch and I will help you.
