Zoom

We offer Zoom for clients locally, when travelling and for those who live at a distance.

Using Zoom has some great advantages in that we can meet at a scheduled time and/or at unconventional times that work for you and our counsellors.

Zoom is more than convenient. It offers the benefit of a therapeutic intervention that is relevant to the moment. You can strategically schedule a session before or after a significant event in your week, while you are at home or out of town. We can assist you to prepare or deescalate from your identified concern, whether it be anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or work related issues.

As is the case with face to face counselling, ethical and professional practice considerations require that we sign a confidentiality agreement that allows your counsellor to notify local health authorities if it is believed that you are a risk to yourself or others.

Some benefits of utilizing Zoom include:

• It can save you the drive time.
• If you are away from home from time to time, you don’t have to miss your session.
• Some people feel more comfortable working with a counsellor who is not local to them – no chance of bumping into them at the shopping mall!
• Greater flexibility in terms of scheduling session times.
• If leaving home is an emotional or physical challenge right now, Zoom can help until you are more mobile and able to meet face to face.
• Some clients may find it is easier to be open and more comfortable talking over Zoom as opposed to face to face. Some research has shown that counselling via Zoom can help people feel less inhibited and more forthright during their sessions.

Challenges / potential issues and cautions

• Isolation can become an issue for some when dealing with emotional difficulties. Zoom can offer an opportunity for those finding it difficult to go out. However, it is important for us to discuss a timeline and the value of developing a strategic plan to conquer your fears of leaving home.
• Please ensure that you are in a confidential setting for your sessions. You must feel free to talk and be open.
• Technology can, and occasionally will fail us. We must have a back up plan, such as a telephone number to at least check in with each other to ensure that you are safe if our Zoom connection is interrupted.
• Zoom is not appropriate for clients who are experiencing profound mental health issues and/or clients who are suicidal. If you or someone you know is in crisis, a face to face session with a crisis counsellor or local hospital will be able to help.

To discuss Zoom counselling in more detail, call Dan at the Family Education Group.

905.933.3406