AN INTRODUCTION TO
ONLINE "DIGITAL" THERAPY
Frequently Asked Questions
As a therapist with a diploma in Online Therapy and Counselling, I am ACTO registered and can help you if you are interested in thinking about online therapy. Here are some initial questions you might find helpful.
What is online or ‘digital’ therapy?
Online therapy is a fast growing way of accessing therapy or counselling via the technology. This can be in the form of ‘apps’ or self help platforms, or in the form of working with a therapist via devices including computer/laptops, smart phones, I pads and so on.
Therapy can be take place using video conferencing, or instant messaging, or email, or VOIP (voice over internet protocol) like a telephone call.
Is it effective and can it work for me?
There is research to suggest that it is effective and that an effective relationship between therapist and client is as possible online as it is in ‘face to face’ work. I will help you to think through some of the pros and cons to working online. If I do not think it is suitable, I will explain why.
How much are sessions?
Fees for sessions for online work are in the region between £70 – £90 dependant on the work. Please enquire for further details.
Do therapists have to have special qualifications to work online?
No, therapists currently do not have to have any special or additional qualifications to work in this way. However, there are some important differences to working online and therapists who have chosen to undertake specific training will be better equipped to work with you. This is especially important for example, in terms of data protection, and generally speaking working safely and ethically online.
It is important to note that there is no regulation of online therapists, so you need to check with individual therapists what their experience is and whether they might have undertaken professional development in the form of courses.
The Association of Counselling and Therapy Online (https://acto-org.uk) is an association specifically for therapists working online which has standards at its heart.
ACTO aims to “promote, maintain, improves and advances online counselling and psychotherapy as a recognised method of therapeutic delivery within the mental health professions”. It provides a register of therapists who have completed training by certain providers.