Counselling has evolved alongside the way we live and work. Today, many assistance programs offer professional support not only in person, but also through secure video, phone, chat, and app-based platforms. This flexibility means you can connect with a counsellor at home, at work, or while travelling.
Digital access makes counselling more convenient, and for many, more approachable.
For clients, this means more choice and flexibility: they can have ongoing therapy when away on business or vacation, or choose to receive support in a way that best fits their learning style and comfort level. What does all this mean for counsellors and their clients? Let’s take a look at some of the intricacies that make online counselling unique.
Some people have questions about how counselling works in an online setting. While the format is different, the foundations remain the same: qualified professionals provide support, guidance, and a safe, confidential space to talk.
Counsellors who work digitally follow the same ethical and professional standards as those who practise in person. Your information is kept private, and your employer will not know you have accessed the program unless you choose to share.
Digital counselling offers several practical advantages:
Convenience and flexibility: Sessions can take place without commuting or scheduling around travel, making it easier to fit support into daily life.
Comfort and accessibility: Some people find it easier to open up from the privacy of home. Digital options also make counselling more accessible for those with mobility challenges or who live in remote areas.
Reduced stigma: For those hesitant about visiting a counselling office, online sessions may feel like a more approachable first step.
If you haven’t tried counselling before, it can help to know what the process looks like. A first session is often about:
getting to know your counsellor and their approach
sharing what has brought you to counselling and what you hope to get out of it
discussing the format you’re most comfortable with — whether that’s video, phone, or chat
agreeing on next steps, which might include follow-up sessions or resources to try on your own
You don’t need to prepare in a particular way, and there’s no expectation to share everything at once. The pace is guided by what feels right for you.
Online counselling can be a good option for many people and situations. It may be particularly useful if you:
would like the flexibility to connect from home, work, or while away
are comfortable using technology for communication
prefer the option of starting with chat or phone before moving to in-person sessions
There are times when in-person support is more appropriate, such as during a crisis or when higher levels of care are needed. Counsellors can help determine when face-to-face or urgent services may be a better fit.
Everyone’s needs are different, and the right form of counselling is the one that helps you feel safe and supported. For some, that may mean choosing online sessions; for others, it may mean seeing a counsellor in person, or combining both.
Through your assistance program, you can access professional, confidential support in the way that works best for you — anytime and anywhere.