Therapy and counselling have conventionally always been undertaken face-to-face and there are very understandable reasons for this. Words are not always sufficient to convey full meaning with body language, energy and subtle cues all indicating different things and the face-to-face approach allows for this.
But it isn’t always suitable as it forces people to come up with quick answers or responses rather than taking time to reflect and has logistical issues with travelling and finding a suitable venue, for example.
Some people may also find it difficult to find the time with additional travelling or may be uncomfortable with going out or discussing delicate matters face-to-face.
So alternative forms of delivery have been growing, and not just because of the coronavirus pandemic. But they do require a different approach.
Online
This is usually conducted using Zoom so that all parties can see each other, although there is the option to switch the camera and/or microphone off. Using it does require a computer with sound, camera and microphone facilities but a built-in or cheap webcam and speakers are fine, it doesn’t need anything advanced.
Zoom can have multiple participants, all of whom can see and hear each other so group sessions are possible, which is particularly useful for mindfulness training. Individual one-to-one discussions are also available plus the sessions can be recorded so that you can watch or listen to elements again later, such as the meditations.
Skype can also be used for one-to-one discussions but it is not usually considered as secure as Zoom so isn’t generally used in any kind of therapeutic setting.
Telephone
Telephone counselling has a long history and is really easy to use with no special equipment needed, but it lacks the face-to-face element and the ability to record sessions. This does mean though that it is excellent for matters of a more delicate and sensitive nature. It can also help clients be more open as they don’t feel as exposed as with video or face-to-face, meaning that a more honest discussion can take place but some elements of mindfulness can be difficult as it doesn’t use all senses and movement-based practises are limited.
Email may feel like an unusual media for therapy but it can work really well for people who can’t find the time to commit to a specific session but who are comfortable with writing and taking time to reflect.
It works by sending an email of a predetermined maximum length (usually between 700 and 1,000 words) to a therapist who will then a reply within a set time period, such as within three working days. The therapist shouldn’t be giving advice as that would breach counselling ethics, but they can give areas to think about, practises and exercises to work on, and reflections from a professionally-trained, impartial perspective that could help enormously.
A reply will often throw up additional points to think about plus it might also help to get some reflections on your experiences of any practises you were given, so email therapy is often purchased in packages. There might be a price for three emails, for example, or five, meaning that you can enter into conversation rather than just having one reply without the opportunity for follow-up.
Feedback and discussion cannot be done in real time but this is actually one of the benefits of email therapy as it means that both parties have the time to reflect and consider before responding. The modern world values speed and the ability to think on our feet, but many of us are uncomfortable with that and are more reflective and contemplative. Email therapy is perfect for those who prefer a different approach.
Email therapy is not good for teaching basic mindfulness practises and can only really be done in a one-to-one setting so misses out on group discussions, but if you have a basic familiarity with mindfulness and are comfortable with the written word it can be a very useful form of support.