Telehealth Counselling: What It Is and How It Compares to In-Person Sessions
Choosing to begin counselling is a significant step toward greater wellbeing. Today, you have more choices than ever in how you receive that support, and at Life to the Full, we've found telehealth counselling to be a remarkably effective and accessible option, serving clients nationwide across Australia. But telehealth can often be met with a measure of uncertainty. Specifically, we often get asked:
what exactly is telehealth counselling?
is it really as beneficial as meeting a counsellor in person?
This guide will provide a clear, balanced comparison, drawing on our expertise and the proven efficacy recognised even by government Medicare subsidies, to help you make an informed decision that's right for your journey to mental health and flourishing.
What is Telehealth Counselling?
Telehealth counselling is professional, confidential therapy delivered remotely. It is always a secure call, most often in the form of a video meeting (but can also be audio only if there are access issues or other concerns). Think of it as a standard counselling session, with the same highly qualified, compassionate practitioners, just accessed from the comfort and privacy of your own space.
How Does It Work in Practice?
At Life to the Full, the process is seamless. When you book a Telehealth counselling session, you receive a secure, private Zoom link embedded directly in your appointment reminder. There are no passwords to enter; a simple click connects you to your practitioner at the scheduled time.
A Head-to-Head Comparison: Telehealth vs. In-Person
How does the experience of meeting a counsellor online really stack up against a traditional face-to-face session? Here’s a look at the key factors.
Effectiveness: Is It "As Good As" Face-to-Face?
This is the most critical question, and the answer is reassuring. The Australian government provides the same Medicare subsidies for Telehealth counselling as it does for in-person sessions. They can only do this because the therapeutic benefit is strong and well-documented, making Telehealth counselling a reliable and effective option for care.
Advantages, Benefits, and Challenges of Telehealth Counselling
To help you weigh your options, it's useful to look at the specific pros and cons of online therapy.
Key Advantages and Benefits
Greater Accessibility: Telehealth counselling removes geographical barriers, making it possible to access a qualified counsellor from anywhere in Australia, whether you're seeking marriage counselling, family support, or help with grief and loss.
Convenience: Sessions can be fit into a busy schedule without the need for travel time, making it easier for parents, caregivers, and busy professionals to commit to therapy.
Comfort: For some, being in the familiar and safe environment of their own home can make it easier to open up and discuss difficult topics.
Potential Challenges to Consider
Technology Reliability: A stable internet connection is essential for a smooth session. Technical glitches can sometimes be a frustrating interruption.
Finding a Private Space: It can be a challenge for some people to find a consistently private and quiet space at home, free from interruptions.
Is Telehealth Counselling Secure and Private at Life to the Full?
Privacy is a valid concern and one we take very seriously. We use a client management system specifically designed for medical and psychological practices, with a Zoom subscription embedded directly into the software. This means:
The links are private and secure, accessible only to you and your practitioner.
The system is protected by the provider's firewalls, ensuring a high level of security.
Who is Telehealth Counselling a Great Fit For?
Telehealth counselling, a service provided nationwide by Life to the Full, can be an ideal choice for a diverse range of individuals, offering professional care that is both flexible and effective. It is particularly well-suited for:
Individuals in rural or remote areas who lack local specialist services.
Clients with busy schedules, mobility challenges, or caregiving responsibilities.
Those who feel more comfortable and open in the privacy of their own home.
Individuals with social anxiety or depression for whom leaving the house can be a significant barrier to getting help.
Younger clients: There is a noticeable preference for telehealth among younger individuals, making it a popular and comfortable option for them.
Who Might Prefer In-Person Sessions?
While Telehealth counselling offers incredible benefits, we recognise it's not for everyone. In-person sessions might be a better fit for:
Individuals who value a clear physical boundary between their home life and the therapeutic space.
Those who find the subtle, non-verbal cues of being in the same room particularly important for connection.
People who may not have a consistently private, quiet, or secure space at home to engage in a confidential session.
Tips for a Successful Telehealth Session
To help you get the most out of your online counselling experience, here are a few simple tips to prepare for your session:
Find a Private Space: Choose a quiet, confidential room where you won't be interrupted. This helps create a safe and focused environment for your conversation.
Check Your Connection: Test your internet connection and device a few minutes beforehand to ensure a smooth and stable video call.
Use Headphones: Headphones can enhance privacy and help you and your counsellor hear each other clearly, minimising distractions.
Minimise Distractions: Close other tabs on your computer and put your phone on silent to give the session your full attention, just as you would in person.
A Final Thought: "Reserve Judgment Until You Try"
We understand that for many, video calls can bring up feelings of "call fatigue" or reminders of the pandemic. An initial reluctance is normal.
However, our experience shows that the session is almost always better than anticipated. Put simply, it is unlikely that the Australian Government would put the same funding into telehealth therapy if it was deemed ineffective.
For many, Telehealth counselling provides crucial accessibility, especially for those in remote Australian areas or individuals seeking specific support like Christian-focused psychological care. It's particularly beneficial for clients dealing with social anxieties or depression, where ease of access removes significant barriers to seeking help.
Telehealth counselling offers a thoroughly effective and worthwhile path to getting the support you need, reinforcing the Life to the Full ethos that there is no shame in seeking help, and that "it's okay not to be perfect".
The best choice is always the one that feels most comfortable and sustainable for you.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you prefer the convenience of online sessions or the connection of meeting in person, our team is here to support you. You can choose the delivery method that works best for you directly through our secure online booking portal.
