ONLINE COUNSELLING

By Simran Chaturvedi

Counseling is relatively a new profession, developed in the late 1890s and early
1900s. It offers growth and remedy over the course of the lifespan development
of an individual, namely- childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age.

During this pandemic, we witnessed so many instances where people not only
realized that there is a need for change but are also willing to make a difference.
Technology has become increasingly important; it is hard to imagine our lives
without the internet and mobile phones. The potential use of technology in
therapy and counseling is very resourceful. A virtual or online platform widens the
scope of reach as people can seek assistance for mental health from anywhere in
the world. Additionally, it creates awareness as those individuals who are shy or
the ones who are not ready to come out with their problems in public can get
help; or people with a disability, in cases of fear of violence or intimidation,
people with agoraphobia (can potentially) feel that help is one call away!

A lot of people, brands, and companies talk about mental health. The word
“counselor” has been misused over the years, by associating it with descriptive
adjectives like “financial” counselor, to promote products. Not only that, there
are so many individuals out there who claim to be “life coaches” or “mental
health influencers” with literally no background in psychology or are not qualified
to provide therapy, actively giving “advice” to people. These people are glorified
salespersons, advice-givers, or motivational speakers, and honestly, seeking help
from such sources can only worsen our mental health. Therefore, one should
always seek help from a professional counselor or therapist.
Today, professional counseling encompasses avoidance of problems and
promotion of growth. It includes wellness, consciousness, and mindfulness, free
will, actualizing your inner potential, research, and development of new
therapies, treatments or simply unfolding quest of life. As the famous Carl Sagan
says,

“Perhaps the most fascinating and mysterious universe of all is the one within us.”

When emails or exchange of messages/texts is the mode of communication

between the client and counselor, some clients may favor that option as it gives
them time to think through and reflect upon the same before communicating
further, and there is always the benefit of anonymity, privacy, convenience and
comfort of being at home, clients can revisit their treatment charts and enhance
their self- reflection. Plus, the therapist can respond to special concerns
regardless the geographical boundaries. It is also a flexible source when it comes
to the time and effort required from both parties.

When I say internet or online, it does not necessarily have to be texting;

counseling services are also offered via live calls, video conferencing, chat room
assistance, or telephone.

As mentioned above, there is a risk of fraud or people without the knowledge of

counseling or psychology, pretending to be counselors. One should always check
for the reliability of the source of online counseling. There is no insurance of
therapies done through the virtual platform and your privacy can be at stake.

When it comes to severe psychiatric disorders or the need for psychological first-
aid, online counseling falls short and should be the last resort. The chances of
addressing and resolving problems that are complicated and serious virtually are
not easy and can be questioned for their authenticity.
The general conclusion that can be drawn about online counseling is that it will
suit some people but not others and it will solve some problems but not all. There
can always be a mix or integration of face-to-face sessions and online therapy
according to the needs and comfort of the client and a module that will be
optimally beneficial for the client can be prepared. Online counseling is a
promising way forward for mental health professionals.