Thinking About Online Therapy? Here’s What You Should Know - (UK)
- michaelwallcounsel
- Mar 6
- 4 min read
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, remote ways of working have become more common. This is especially true for counselling and therapy, as many therapists now include online services in their offerings – including myself.
Yes, therapy is becoming more common, but why does online therapy still feel unfamiliar, daunting, or even unsafe for some? This is something I can’t fully answer, as everyone will have their own opinions and, more importantly, their own feelings about online counselling. What I can do, however, is share some of the logistics of this type of therapy and break down key aspects such as how online therapy works, the practicalities, who might benefit from it, the ‘feel’ of the experience, and other important elements of digital counselling.
How Online Therapy Works
There are various ways to access remote therapy. In this blog, I’ll primarily focus on video call-based therapy, as this is the service I offer. However, there are also telephone and chat-based therapies that are gaining prominence.
For online (video call) sessions, these are typically conducted via platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. The beauty of this is that you can be in the comfort of your own home, wearing what you like, and even enjoying a cup of tea or coffee – other drinks are applicable too!
A huge benefit of online therapy is flexibility. It allows you, as the client, to experience an intimate, trusting relationship from your own private space—without worrying about travel. Speaking from my own experience as a client, one of the biggest advantages I found was feeling less of a spotlight on how I presented myself. This allowed me to focus on what truly mattered—exploring my thoughts and feelings.
Practical Considerations
Many people worry that they need to be ‘tech-savvy’ or a computer ‘whizz-kid’ to attend online therapy. The truth is, you really don’t. Typically, all you need to do is click a link that your therapist sends via email.
Of course, things can go wrong—internet connectivity problems, audio issues, video display glitches. However, therapists are generally quite empathic beings. If there are connectivity issues, your therapist will usually have a backup plan in place, such as switching to a phone call. In essence, if things don’t go smoothly, you’re not alone—just like in any relationship, we’re in it together.
Another key consideration is your space. It’s important to find somewhere private where you feel safe to express yourself freely—though, of course, this may not always be possible.
Some practical essentials that can help with online therapy include:
Earphones – Noise-canceling ones can be useful if there’s background noise.
A webcam and microphone – These are usually built into most laptops but may need adjusting for better quality.
Who Might Benefit from Online Therapy?
There are many reasons someone might prefer online therapy. Speaking from personal experience—when I was a student struggling with anxiety, attending events and appointments felt overwhelming.
Online therapy meant I didn’t have to face that barrier immediately. I could still be heard and supported without aggravating my anxiety, allowing me to take my time with myself. So, for those who struggle with social anxiety or face-to-face interactions, online therapy can be a helpful stepping stone.
Other groups who might benefit include:
People with busy schedules – Online therapy offers flexibility to fit sessions around work, childcare, or studies.
Those living in remote areas – If in-person therapy isn’t easily accessible, online sessions remove that barrier.
Individuals with physical disabilities or health conditions – For some, traveling to therapy is challenging or even impossible. Online therapy ensures that support is still available.
If barriers like these have stopped you from seeking therapy, online counselling could be a great option.
Does Online Therapy Feel Different?
I understand and relate to common concerns about online therapy. Some people wonder: Is it the same? Is it just a worse version of face-to-face therapy?
The key to counselling is the human connection. A strong therapeutic relationship allows you, as the client, to explore deep emotions—not because I, as the therapist, point you in a direction, but because I walk alongside you in your journey.
Does online therapy feel different? Yes. But is it worse? I don’t think so. Many clients find that after a few sessions, it feels completely natural. The sessions become what they are meant to be—your safe space.
A well-trained online therapist will offer you the same empathy, warmth, and judgment-free space as they would in a face-to-face session. It’s true that the experience may differ, particularly in terms of body language cues, but there are also benefits. You may feel less pressure to "perform" or present yourself in a certain way. Do you feel more at ease in your own space? Are you less likely to dress up to impress or focus on how you look? These are important aspects to consider.
Final Thoughts
To summarise, online therapy is different—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. At first, the environment might feel unfamiliar. You might only see the upper half of your therapist, and you might question whether you’re truly being heard. But, in time, these concerns often ease.
However, if you try online therapy and it doesn’t feel right for you, that’s okay too. Everyone has different preferences. Keeping an open mind can help, but ultimately, therapy should work for you in the way that feels most comfortable.
The core of counselling remains unchanged. That deep, unspoken therapeutic connection is still there. And being part of that relationship—whether in person or online—can be truly transformative.
So, online therapy? It’s okay to not be tech-savvy, it’s okay to have concerns, and it’s okay if it feels different. The key is that this is your space—a space to explore, reflect, breathe, and grow. And all it takes to get started is finding a therapist and clicking a link.
I currently have some availability for online counselling for those in the UK. If you’re looking for support in a way that fits your life, I’m here to help.
To book your session, email me at: michaelwallcounselling@gmail.com.
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