Online counselling, sometimes known as online talking therapy, allows individuals to receive professional mental health support through digital platforms, such as video calls, chat, or emails, from the comfort of their own home. It’s a convenient alternative to in-person therapy and is just as effective for a wide range of issues like anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems.

Online counselling typically involves scheduling an appointment with an accredited and trained counsellor, much like traditional therapy. Sessions are conducted via video conferencing platforms or phone calls, providing flexibility for people who may not be able to, or don’t want to, visit a therapist in person.

Yes, numerous studies have shown that online counselling is as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. The key is finding a qualified therapist who is experienced in offering support remotely. 

At Chrysalis, we’ll do our utmost to match you with an online therapist who suits you.

• Convenience: You can attend sessions from anywhere, which is great for those with busy schedules. However, we recommend that you find a private, quiet space that you feel comfortable in. 
• Privacy: You don’t need to visit a clinic or office, allowing for a more private experience.
• Access to Therapy: Ideal for people living in remote areas where in-person therapy may not be readily available.
• Effective: Online therapy is proven to be as effective as in-person counselling.

Anyone experiencing mental health issues, stress, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, trauma, or simply wanting to improve their mental well-being can benefit from online counselling. It’s especially helpful for people with busy schedules, those who feel more comfortable in their own environment, or individuals in areas with limited access to mental health services.

Our sessions are non-recordable and non-retrievable. Each session is privately encrypted, secured and exists only between the therapist and the client. Information may be taken by hand by our therapists in note form but will be stored in a secure way in their premises. 

To prepare for your first session:

• Find a safe, quiet and private space where you won’t be disturbed. We also recommend making sure the room isn’t too hot or too cold.
• Have a glass of water or a drink to hand.
• Ensure your internet connection is stable.
• For privacy, you might want to use headphones.
• Think about and write down any issues or topics you want to discuss.
• Try to relax and treat it like an in-person therapy session. Your therapist is there to help.

For online counselling, you’ll typically need:

• A device with internet access, like a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
• A webcam and microphone (most modern devices have these built-in).
• A stable internet connection for smooth communication.

The cost of Chrysalis Talking Therapies online counselling varies based on the therapist, their qualifications, and the type of service. Prices start from £40 per session, and each therapist displays their fee as part of their bio on the platform

Your employer might cover online and in-person counselling in your contract or insurance, so you should check your employment benefits. Private medical insurance may also include online therapy, so it’s worth checking your policy.

The length of the therapeutic relationship varies between person, there is not right or wrong length of time and is dictated by you. Your sessions will be 50 minutes long and should start at the time that has been arranged with your therapist.  

No, counsellors cannot prescribe medication; however, they may be able to refer you to services that can help, and provide further treatment or information should you need it. If a counsellor feels you need more support, they will ask permission to do this and help you through the process, if you require it.

Online counselling can help manage ongoing mental health concerns, but it’s not always suited for immediate crises. If you’re in urgent need of help or in a crisis, it’s important to contact a local emergency service via 999 or 111, a crisis hotline, or go to your nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.

In the UK, mental health crisis hotlines include:

• Mind’s Support line: 0300 102 1234 (9am - 6pm, Mon-Fri)
• The Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7 and free from any phone)
• SANEline: 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm – 10pm, 7 days a week)
• National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK: 0800 689 5652 (6pm - midnight, 7 days a week)
• Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): 0800 58 58 58 (5pm - midnight, 7 days a week)
• Papyrus HOPELINEUK: 0800 068 4141 (24/7 for those under 35 struggling with suicidal feelings) 
• Switchboard: 0300 330 0630 (10am - 10pm, 7 days a week for LGBT individuals)
• C.A.L.L. The Community Advice & Listening Line: 0800 132 737 (Wales only, 24/7)

Broadly, yes. It’s common to use either term to refer to the same thing.

However, there are some small, specific differences between the two. Talking therapy is a general term that encompasses a range of approaches to help people with their mental health. There may be different types of therapy that all fall under that banner.

Online counselling is one such thing. It’s a type of talking therapy often used to help people with shorter-term emotional and mental health problems, such as dealing with the loss of a loved one or a relationship.

Yes, our understanding and empathetic LGBT-affirmative therapists can help you navigate and explore any issues relating to your sexuality or identity. Unless it’s important to the problems you’re facing, and you want to do so, we’ll never ask you to disclose anything you don’t want to during online therapy.

Yes, we have a range of online therapists who understand and can work with neurodivergence, including people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Tourette’s Syndrome, and more. 

We understand the unique difficulties people face, and can help them explore their challenges and experiences in a safe, empathetic space.