telecounselling.png

Video and Phone Counselling is available to all of our clients. 

shutterstock_1653288229.jpg
shutterstock_1469630105 (1).jpeg

It's hard enough to ask for help. Online and phone counselling is a way to remove unnecessary barriers to get the help you need, when you need it.

During the COVID crisis, our psychologists and counsellors will continue to see clients through online therapy and phone therapy. We are committed to providing much needed support for individuals, couples, and families through this difficult time.

How does video therapy and phone therapy work?

We make it easy, so clients and therapists can focus on what really matters. When clients book an appointment, they will receive an invitation to their Client Portal. Clients can sign intake forms, book appointments, and access invoices in their portal. Payments are taken by credit card or e-transfer. 

When you book an appointment by video, you will receive an email from your therapist with a link to open your session. If you wish to meet by phone, your therapist will call the number you provide. 

Is video counselling and teletherapy as effective as seeing a therapist in person?

Video counselling is an emerging and modern way for clients to connect with their therapist. This therapeutic technique is garnering the attention of researchers, and preliminary studies suggest that for many cases online therapy is as effective and sometimes even more effective than in-person sessions.

How do you protect my privacy?

We take client privacy very seriously. While it is understandable that clients may worry about the security of online sessions, they can rest easy knowing their health information is completely secure when booking sessions with us. Similar to doing other vulnerable activity like banking online, the platforms we use to store information are secure and encrypted. Find more information about how River's Edge Counselling Centre keeps your information safe in our Client Information Form. Our Video Counselling Guide for Clients also provides tips for how clients can ensure confidentiality on their side of the call.

What are the benefits of this type of therapy?

People in many different circumstances find e-counselling beneficial. The number one benefit is convenience: 

  • Those people in rural areas without access to counselling services can avoid having to decide between long commutes or not getting the help they need. 

  • Those who move frequently or travel for work, but wish to maintain a relationship with one therapist are great candidates for e-counselling. 

  • Stay-at-home parents can avoid the added expense of a babysitter by scheduling sessions from the comfort of their home during nap time. 

  • Those who need group sessions with family or loved ones in different locations can do so without having to travel. 

  • Additionally, those with physical or emotional limitations can eliminate barriers to care by connecting online or by phone. 

When receiving video counselling or teletherapy, clients have more control over their environment and can create a safe comfort zone for interacting with their therapist. 

In the midst of the COVID crisis, when we are being asked to socially distance, and people are self-isolated or quarantined, this type of counselling serves a vital need. Video and phone counselling will be a lifeline for anyone who is struggling - with anxiety, depression, loss, or stress caused by the uncertainty and mental, emotional, physical, financial, social and spiritual impacts of the pandemic.

Are there any risks to doing therapy in this way?

There is no type of therapy that is right for everyone. For those in crisis or who would harm themselves or others, there is no substitute for one-on-one help in person.  In addition, these may be some of the risks: 

  • As therapists can only control confidentiality on their side of the camera, clients must be intentional about limiting any risks to confidentiality on their side. 

  • Online therapy sessions may experience an occasional technology glitch (therapists will always ask clients for their phone number to continue the session if this happens). 

  • Online therapy may not be right for those with more severe psychiatric illnesses. 

  • Some people just prefer to see a therapist face-to-face, or may benefit from the therapeutic effect of having a safe space to go to for their sessions. 

  • At times, a more limited ability to read body language in an online session may lead to unintentional misunderstandings. This makes communication and checking-in between therapists and clients an important part of this work.

How do I decide if online therapy and phone therapy is a good fit for me? 

Our admin support team is here to answer any questions you have about e-counselling, and to help you find a therapist that is a good 'fit' for you. 

Once you choose a therapist - based on your goals, schedule, finances, and other factors - if you are still undecided, you can request a 10min 'trial' of the video platform with the therapist before getting starting. Making sure you can access the session easily, and that you feel comfortable connecting with someone online, may be what you need to start the process confidently - and that's OK!

Can I also see my therapist in person sometimes?

Some clients may choose to use video counselling exclusively, whereas others may prefer traditional counselling and use the remote option only occasionally. Clients can work with their therapists to determine which combination of the modalities will best fit their needs and lifestyle.

Does online therapy with a psychologist or counsellor work well with children and teens?

shutterstock_1474238795(1).jpeg

Our therapists find the experience of working with even younger children through e-counselling to be effective. Just as they do in the office, they use creative and play therapy strategies online to connect with their young clients in meaningful ways. The session is often split between time spent with the child (often on a tablet to allow for movement), and the parents or caregivers, providing strategies and interventions to help them support their child between sessions. 

shutterstock_1239218194.jpeg

Recent studies seem to suggest that many teens actually favour an online format. Teens are comfortable with technology and so this is not usually a barrier. They may find it more comfortable to be in a familiar space, rather than a therapist's office. It also may lessen the stigma of therapy for them to communicate in a way that is more familiar.

Do you do couples therapy online also?

Yes! As scheduling can be particularly difficult for couples, video therapy may allow for more consistent sessions and prevent unhelpful disruptions in the process. Couples are sometimes in two locations for sessions - for example, if one partner travels frequently for work. However, it is most often provided to couples who are sitting together in a space that is confidential and comfortable for them both.

How do I get started?

Our Admin Team is here to support you!

for more information, or to schedule a session:

Call: 780-460-0022
Text: 780-460-0022

Email: info@riversedgecounselling.com

appointments available:  

Monday - Friday 8:30am - 9:00pm

Saturday & Sundays 9:00am - 5:00pm

Same day appointments usually available upon request.

If you, or someone you are seeking therapy for, is having suicidal thoughts, call the Crisis/Distress Line: 780-482-HELP (4357) or one of these Emergency Contacts for support and assistance. 

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.